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I have a non-GM ignition key stamped B48-A. I purchased 2 GM blanks from eBay, and when I went to the locksmith to get them cut he said they were not correct. On inspection, one of the lands on the blanks is noticeably wider.
Do I have the correct key (A or B) for a '66? None of the Corvette specialist I checked don't mention A or B on theirs. The blanks were not stamped either.
All ignition keys from the 1930s (I believe) to 1966 were of the same octagon blank and there were only 8 or so cuts, so cars were easily stolen. In 1967, GM began redesigning the keys and adding letter to designate the new blank design - 1967 octagon head (ignition) A, 1967 pear head (trunk) B. Each year it was moved to the next set of letters for the latest design.
We have the one fits all keys and thus there are no letter designations.
Do a google search and you'll find plenty of history.
If you still have the '66 model year lock cylinder(s) in your ignition switch, glove box, spare tire lock; no, those key blanks are incorrect. Keys with identified with A (octagon) & B (oval) were '67 model year only -- (C & D for '68). The blade profile is different than that of previous GM products going all the way back to the '30s thru & including '66, as the General went into 'theft prevention' mode.
Thanks all. I guess I have '67 ignition and door locks. Odd....
Regards,
Jerry
Jerry I think that you misunderstood or maybe I am misunderstanding. All 66 and earlier keys were not designated by either an "A" or "B" key blanks. Only 67 and later used those keys. The Briggs and Stratton GM key blanks without the A or B should be able to be cut for your 66 assuming that you do have your original 66 locks and ignition. Good luck getting it squared away.
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