key codes for 1976

[Stephen B.]

where can i go to find the codes for the key blanks for 1976 - one has a "C" the other has a "D". keep up the good work - enjoy reading new threads - steve benson

[Jim T.]

Re: key codes for 1976

Check out the add in the Corvette Restorer.

[Gary B.]

Re: key codes for 1976

Stephen,

The C and D refer to the keyway design used on '68, '72, 76, and '80 GM products. Those letters don't tell you much about the four alpha-numerica key codes. For keys codes the easiest solution is to go to your local locksmith. Exactly what are you trying to do? Decipher the key codes from the depth of cuts? That can be done fairly reliably so long as the keys aren't badly worn, but you need a code book or computer software to convert from cuts to key code and the easiest place to find someone with those it to visit your local locksmith.

Gary

[Dan M.]

Re: key codes for 1976

You could contact Pete Lindahl on this website. He is the key expert and a good guy. I'm not sure what you are trying to do with the codes but Pete can probably help.

[Jack H.]

Re: key codes for 1976

Then, if you want the replacement key blank to judge properly (originality) understand the keyway coding designator (C, D) was positioned either upright or inverted vs. the keyway (manufactured by Briggs & Stratton) instead of at a 45-degree angle to the keyway (manufactured by StraTech)...

[Gary B.]

Key codes for 1976

Dan,

My guess is that Stephen wants to know the codes, from the cuts, since he probably no longer has the knockouts with the codes present. That can't be done over the phone. It can be done, although a little tricky, from a high quality, close-up photo of the key cuts, again so long as the key is not badly worn.

Gary

PS Jack, the company that replaced Briggs & Stratton is actually spelled Strattec.

[Dan M.]

Re: key codes for 1976

You can get the key codes from the ignition lock itself althought I am not sure how to pop the 76 lock out of the streering column. Pete helped me with my 68 but the 76 is different.

[Gary B.]

Key codes for 1976

You can get the key codes from the ignition lock itself althought I am not sure how to pop the 76 lock out of the streering column. Pete helped me with my 68 but the 76 is different.

Dan,

Removing the ignition lock cylinders from C1s and C2s is pretty straightforward, but things get more complicated with locking steering columns on C3s. It's not something I would advise many owners to attempt on their own.

If Stephen has the original storage compartment lock, it's likely that it has the key code for the secondary (oval) key stamped into that. But that still leaves the square key code unknown. The easiest thing is to bring the keys to a good locksmith who can decode them in a minute or two. There's no reason to remove the ignition lock cylinder if he has a working key. Just have the cuts on the key read by someone who knows how to do it and then go to the code book or computer program to get the code from the cuts for '76.

Gary

[Jack H.]

Re: key codes for 1976

This approach (remove lock cylinder & look for factory code emboss) works, IF the lock cylinder is factory original to the car AND it hasn't been re-coded by prior owner(s)....

[Stephen B.]

Re: key codes for 1976

thanks guys for all the info - is it possible the paperwork that was on the window when new has this info - looking at all the options and the bottom is liste key nos. with two diffferent codes - 3 numberic numbers and one alpha character? any thoughts -

[Dan M.]

Re: key codes for 1976

My guess without seeing it is that is the key code(s). Key codes (for a 68) were a four digit code; one number, one alpha-numeric, and then two numbers. Like a 6P31 or a 7R22. Again 76 could be a lot different.

[Brian G.]

Re: key codes for 1976

I think the key codes are listed at the top line of the tank sticker, (build sheet).

[Gary B.]

Re: key codes for 1976

thanks guys for all the info - is it possible the paperwork that was on the window when new has this info - looking at all the options and the bottom is liste key nos. with two diffferent codes - 3 numberic numbers and one alpha character? any thoughts -

Stephen,

GM key codes for 1976 have the following form:

Square key: xxAx or xxBx
Oval key: xxCx or xxDx

where the x's are numbers between 0 and 9.

For example, a 1976 ignition key might have a code of 12A9, and a key code book would tell you the six key cuts are 531243. And a 1976 storage compartment key might have a code 45C9, corresponding to cuts 535333.

Gary

[Stephen B.]

Re: key codes for 1976

thanks to everyone - i found out the codes - special thanks to gary beaupre - its people like gary who cares and helps out the new kids. the thread is wonderful- lots of helpful hints.