RE: door lock re-keying

["Don Walter" <DonW@cati.com>]

Knowledge is Power.  Why isn't this an FAQ tech doc.


-----Original Message-----
From:	Foxx (in a box)
Sent:	Sun 1/7/2001 11:59 AM
To:	Bobby Griffin
Cc:	scirocco-L@scirocco.org
Subject:	Re: door lock re-keying

> So I went to the junk yard and got another one. I just can't figure
> out how to make this new lock open with my old key. Is there a simple
> way? Do I have to take out one of my other locks to match them up? Any
> help is appreciated as always.

  it's not that difficult to do, but can be a little tedious and messy.
i've done this on a door lock before and my hatch lock as well. the
glove box is similar, however, i lacked the correct size brass tabs to
change that.

1) remove the two screws holding the handle in place
2) on the inside of the handle, locate the 'l'-shaped bracket that's
used to lock and unlock the door. it should be attached to the locking
cylinder with a screw (might have to scrape away some old grease).
3) remember how the 'l' bracket attaches to the cylinder and remove it
along with the spring below it (also note how the spring attaches and
this is the piece that's responsible for the lock returning to the
middle with you lock or unlock it).
4) remove the lock cylinder and wipe the excess grease off. be careful -
if it's been rekeyed before, the brass tabs may not be attached securely
and could fall out.
5) insert your key and find out which tabs need to be replaced (the lock
cylinder should be smooth when your key is inserted).
6) remove key and take a small screw driver and push on the brass tab on
the side opposite of the small hole. be careful as if there is a small
spring in the hole. while not under a lot of pressure, because of it's
size it can be lost easily.
7) locate the number on the tab and replace it with the next number up
or down until you find one that aligns properly.
8) reinstall lock cylinder, spring, and 'l' bracket and test to make
sure your key makes it work properly. if not, repeat the above steps
until it's right. if so, replace handle and enjoy a properly working
lock.

note: another method is to remove the brass tabs that just don't fit,
leaving the ones that do fit in the lock cylinder. while this does work,
it also makes it easier for someone to break into your car. (less
combinations = better chances for success)

note: another method is to identify the offending tabs and use a rotary
tool, grinder, file, etc. to remove the excess of the brass tab. while
better the above mentioned method of removing the tabs, it still allows
for a greater chance of break-in success.

note: it is best to have a variety of brass tabs lying around. that
said, you have two methods: buying them from a lock smith or removing a
number of lock cylinder from a junkyard. in the first instance, you get
the tabs as new. in the second, you get the small springs that go along
with the tabs. whichever route you take, the choice is yours. the lock
cylinders from all vw's and audi with the same door handles *should*
work, but please only take them from cars that have their keys missing.

-- 
 /\_/\	  Foxx (in a box)
< o o >	  http://foxx.tripod.com
  \ /
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