lost keys to my wedge!!

[singh350i]

after 2 weeks searching for my wedge keys i have given up, so i thought id get the door lock and ignition barrel out and get keys cut, the door lock was easy but i cant figure out how to get the ignition barrel off.

any help of how to get it off would be much appreciated, or is there any other way i can get a key cut like the chassis number or barrel number etc..

[lancia4wd]

Hi,

A good Automotive locksmith (AKA legal thief) should get you a key that will work.

Its Austin Rover, i lost my Lotus Esprit key, 1985 car and they had it open in one min and started in two with a key.

As far as removing the barrel, then its factory attached and i do not think you can seperate it from the columnm, sure you can break the lock and pull the barrel but that would only give you starting / driving.

Regards

Nick

[Wedg1e]

The whole ignition lock assembly is fixed to the column with shear-head bolts which you can drill out in order to remove the switch.
I'm not telling you how to get the barrel out though, that would be silly ;o)

[Hamish400]

Hi,

If I recall correctly the key numbers are given in the drivers handbook (if you have one with your car)

The company (who's name I do not remember), in the old factory buildings in Blackpool (next door to Surface and Design) have old records and may be able to identify the key numbers you need to get replacement keys.

May be worth a phone call.

Rgds
Hamish

[adam quantrill]

Hotwire it - then drive it like you stole it (with more authenticity)!!!

[singh350i]

thanx for all your help guys, i got it off today i dident drill the bolts out instead i dropped the column got a small chisel(i know it sounds scary) and tapped the nuts loose with a hammer came out a lot easier than expected, i was very close to call out a locksmith but there u go a bit of graft, cuts and back pains its done. thanx again guys lookin forward to starting back to stage one again.

[adam quantrill]

Good news - make a spare set this time too!

[singh350i]

well i did think it was good news until the key shop told me they cant open up the barrel because its a fixed item unless i leave it with him so he can keep tryin to guess it but no guarantee, i think im just gonna buy a lock set.