*sigh* locking nut woes

[CurvaParabolica]

This may be a stupid question (flame suit at the ready) but what are the chances of after-market locking nut keys being generic? I.e. a key from one set being able to unlock the nuts from another set of the same make? It probably sounds improbable however the design on my key has got me doubting.

It would appear my locking nut key is FUBAR and I need the wheels off to change the ARB bushes. Nuts are collared so smacking a socket on isn't an option and the local mechanic reckons whoever last tightened the wheel (tyre-fitters ) has put it on so tight that drilling it out isn't an option as it would damage the wheel. Nuts were bought from Elkparts around 18 months ago; they have since shut-down. The key design is fairly simple (triangular imprint with crescent moons on each corner) but before going to the hassle of trying to track down a new set I'd like to know if I'm clutching a straws with the whole idea.

TIA

[v8will]

Unlikely. Get them cut off.

[TallPaul]

There are probably only a hundred or so different combinations of "key" so although slim, you may be able to get lucky and find another. Manufacturers certainly dont make every single locking set unique.

[abbotsmike]

IT depends, If you know the manufacturer then you might stand a chance, there are only a set number of patterns offered by any locking nut manufacturer.

[MX7]

The collars on mine were easy to get rid of with a chisle, so it only leaves you with the core, which a strong socket hammered on might sort out.

[SV8Predator]

Locking wheel nut removers have been available for years.

Here's one:

http://www.lasertools.co.uk/item.aspx?cat=0&it...

[anonymous-user]

I have used an impact gun, a locking nut remover, lots of time and patience to remove one before..

it is doable.

[Superhoop]

The collar might stop you using a socket smashed onto the locking wheel nut, but it won't stop you using a socket smashed onto the locking wheel nut.

The collar tends to be made of a fairly soft steel, and can be broken off easy with a very sharp, small chisel. Once the collar has been removed, you can use the method above

[martin mrt]

I used A Blue Point Locking nut removal set to remove the ones on a Polo I bought to do up and sell on, it needed two tyres and there was no locking but key with the car.

It literally took less than 20 minutes to remove all 4

[CurvaParabolica]

Thanks guys; plan was to take a heavy approach next weekend and take a chisel to the collars; in the meantime I was just looking at all possible routes of least resistance!

[Bridgewaterfalls]

Often the problem is not being able to get enough lateral force. If the key fits but jumps when any force is applied, move the car next to a wall and use a scissor jack to apply lateral force through the breaker bar pushing the key into the nut. This is more likey to happen with those cheaper aftermarket locking ups with a few prongs into the nut.

Jobs a goodun

Jim

[roscozs]

I use a tool from Dynomec. Its an impact driver that uses soft metal to mould to the shape of the nut/bolt. Once youve given it a few blows with a hammer you can just loosen the nut off with a bar.

[f1nn]

Pop along to Halfords, buy a tube of chemical metal, mix and push into the locking wheel nut key, Small amount obviously.

Put the key onto the nut and wait for it to set.

Remove nut then put the key into a vice, few taps of the hammer and it all comes apart.

Works every time.

[B'stard Child]

f1nn said:

Pop along to Halfords, buy a tube of chemical metal, mix and push into the locking wheel nut key, Small amount obviously.

Put the key onto the nut and wait for it to set.

Remove nut then put the key into a vice, few taps of the hammer and it all comes apart.

Works every time.

I'm amazed

[HeatonNorris]

f1nn said:

Pop along to Halfords, buy a tube of chemical metal, mix and push into the locking wheel nut key, Small amount obviously.

Put the key onto the nut and wait for it to set.

Remove nut then put the key into a vice, few taps of the hammer and it all comes apart.

Works every time.

Am I missing something here? - he's lost the key.

[f1nn]

Yes you are.

His key is damaged, not missing.

[NiceCupOfTea]

HeatonNorris said:

f1nn said:

Pop along to Halfords, buy a tube of chemical metal, mix and push into the locking wheel nut key, Small amount obviously.

Put the key onto the nut and wait for it to set.

Remove nut then put the key into a vice, few taps of the hammer and it all comes apart.

Works every time.

Am I missing something here? - he's lost the key.

Yes, it's FUBAR, not lost!

Not sure what sort elkparts used to sell - you could ask on uksaabs, somebody might know the brand.

When my McGard key broke I got a replacement from Germany by taking a photo of it and emailing it to them. 90% of the time when these break it's down to them being overtightened.

[tr7v8]

HeatonNorris said:

f1nn said:

Pop along to Halfords, buy a tube of chemical metal, mix and push into the locking wheel nut key, Small amount obviously.

Put the key onto the nut and wait for it to set.

Remove nut then put the key into a vice, few taps of the hammer and it all comes apart.

Works every time.

Am I missing something here? - he's lost the key.

Yup the OP has the key but it is FUBARd in other words knackered!