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Old Sep 19, 2006 | 10:56 AM
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Default Original Type Keys

I'd like to have a set of original style keys made for my 68, to replace the generic ones supplied by the locksmith. Question is, did the 68 originally come with the GM keys(round for doors, square for ignition) or the older style(round, octagon)? I will run them by the locksmith at noon and find out the series(A,B,C, or D)
It's a late 68 if that makes any difference .
Thanks in advance
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Old Sep 19, 2006 | 11:56 AM
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"1968 had a hex-head key coded 'C' for the ignition and doors; an oval head coded 'D' operated the glove box and spare tire lock"
Above quote is from the NCRS 1968-69 Corvette Technical Information Manual & Judging Guide.(Third Edition , page 17)

I have these keys for my 68 coupe which I purchased in 1972 from the original owner, so I believe the information to be correct.
Kurt
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Old Sep 19, 2006 | 12:32 PM
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try Ebay. i picked up a couple of blanks for my 73 there. don't remember the price being too bad.
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Old Sep 19, 2006 | 02:08 PM
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My 68 442 had the original briggs and stratton keys,not sure if vettes came that way too.The A,B,C,D....etc makes all the difference on any G.M. style key,found out the hard way once on some fancy olds keys back in the day.
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Old Sep 20, 2006 | 11:36 AM
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Originally Posted by mdj21
try Ebay. i picked up a couple of blanks for my 73 there. don't remember the price being too bad.
If you buy off ebay or from the suppliers you are spending too much. My locksmith laughed and showed me his supply books. The origial GM stamped keys are readily available from GM for about $2. He cut me two sets for completely original keys for $8. I thnk there are many guys buying the originals at $2 and putting them up on ebay as some rare item found in the bowels of someones basement. Another scam of sorts is getting your spare lock repinned to match your car for around $50 through the Vette suppliers. Again I took it to my locksmith and he repinned it for $12 in 5 minutes.
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Old Sep 20, 2006 | 01:09 PM
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As above. When I went to Florida after getting the Vette I just walked into a GM dealer & bought 2 blanks (one door, one ign). A locksmith back here cut them from the originals. They were about $2/each to buy.
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Old Sep 20, 2006 | 01:44 PM
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Thanks for the info guys

Took my set of keys to the shop that made them, they don't stock GM keys, but pointed out the series is stamped on the key(C for the doors, E for ignition). I'll go to the dealership here(Crown Cheverolet in my case) and see what they got.

Thanks again
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