Removing thekey while running?

[Jim C.]

Re: Removing thekey while running?

I can pull the key out of my 1966 while it's running.

[Terry M.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

That is why attempting to remove the key with the engine running is one of the Performance Verification checks. Your cure, should you chose to do so, MAY be as simple as getting a new key made using the key code. A "replica key" using your current key will not cure the problem because the worn key will only make a replica of the wear.

A new key from the code will be exactly what the original key was -- in terms of the size of the notches -- when new. There is a chance that the problem is the lock itself, in which case the new key will not help. The new key is the least expensive is least labor intensive first step however.

[Michael M.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

Terry, what is the key code? Do I go to a Chevy dealer with my VIN#? Thanks for the info.

[Terry M.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

Sorry, our C3s are too old for the dealer to get the code from Chevrolet records. If you don't have some of the original paperwork -- most bills of sale have the key code(s) on them, there are some other options with an increasing amount of effort. The original keys had the code stamped on them, and some people are lucky enough to get the knocked-out part of the key with items from previous owners. Some dealers or locksmiths can gauge the key and make an original from that -- but not all will be willing to do that because gauging accurately requires some skill and not all parts departments do enough key/lock any longer to have skilled employees. The chances of error are higher than most want to deal with.

Most dealerships now cut new keys on a computer driven grinder machine. The same grinding head that is used at your hardware store. While the computer driven part of it is a step up, my preference is for the pliers-type cutter that snips off the unused part of the key like that which was used years ago when our cars were new.

The next best option is to get the code off one of the locks -- the original locks have the code stamped on the side. In your case either the ignition or the door lock will have to come out. The ignition lock might be easiest -- take a look at the Factory Service Manual (FSM), it's a no-brainer. I would get in touch with Pete Lindahl – he is in the "view user profile" link just down from the top of the page -- he can cut you a key using the old-style cutter, from an original blank or a modern blank. You might be able to find the same service locally, but I know Pete can do it.

[Michael M.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

Terry. Thanks for the information. Well, I'll add that to the set of projects for my '68. I had the original key but somehow I lost it around the house many years ago and I never found it and have since moved. I still hope that one day I'll be looking in the bottom of my toolbox or something like that and there it will be, but I'm too realistic to think it will really happen. Are the new key blanks sold by the various Corvette vendors OK to use?

[Peter L.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

Michael - On your 68 if the locks and lock cylinders are original, you can find the ignition ("C" key) KEY NUMBER stamped on the side of the ignition lock cylinder. All you have to do is remove the ignition lock cylinder. Turn the lock cylinder all the way to the left with the key in place, insert a paper clip in the hole you see in the front of the lock cylinder and turn the key a bit more to the left and the lock cylinder will come out.

The rear compartment lock cylinder will also be stamped with the "D" KEY NUMBER. You'll have to remove the lock from the compartment lid and then remove the lock cylinder from the lock case. This requires pushing down on the lck cylinder keeper and the tumblers with the key out of the lock. KEY NUMBER should be stamped on the side or on a flat spot near the back end of the cylinder.

The 68 KEY NUMBERs are a set of 4 alphanumnerics, 3 numbers and 1 letter.

Pete

[Terry M.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

"Are the new key blanks sold by the various Corvette vendors OK to use?"

Depends on your goal. If you want "correct for judging" most are not correct. If the issue of large key hole or small key hole means anything to you, this is the issue. Get in touch with Pete -- the "key man" as someone else on this forum dubbed him. I'm not sure what his current stock is. Authentic original blanks are not easy to come upon. Pete was co-author, with Gary Beaupre, of an article on keys for The Restorer about a year ago. That article answers the size of the hole question.

If you want "correct for function" almost anyone -- including probably your neighborhood hardware store -- will do.

[Michael M.]

Thanks Terry & Peter. I think I have it now. *NM*

[Jim T.]

Re: Removing thekey while running? 67?

My wife found original ignition keys to our original owner 68 and 70 Corvettes we still own along with the two locking gas cap keys for them as well. The found keys were in a real leather purse she had not used in about 18-19 years. I am glad she liked this purse enough not to just toss it. Is cost her a few dollars and still looks good.

[Wayne K.]

Jim, your a lucky man......

in more ways than one. I wish my wife could still be happy with a purse that she purchased 18-19 years ago.