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I got a great deal on a 1976 Vette which hasnt been running for 10 years. I finally figured out why....the key was stuck in the on position and unable to rotate forwards or backwards.
After disassembling the column, I was able to get the key and cylinder out. But still.....I can't seem to pull the key out. The key does rotate forwards and backwards...but not fully.
Yes, I already bought another key and cylinder but want this key so I can open the locked accesory box behind the passenger seat.
1974 and up. Square headed key operates ignition only. Oval key operates doors and compartments.
1973 and down. Square key operates both ignition and doors. Oval key operates compartments and spare tire lock.
To remove key from ignition, grind off some material from back side of ignition which holds on the plug stop. It is a circular piece with a protrusion. Next remove the plastic key buzzer activator by tapping of the metal slide located on the back side of the ignition. Pull the plug from the shell and then the key from the plug. It appears that you have an original key in the ignition. Take the numbers of the knockout and any decent locksmith can generate a key with that #. Number would read something like 21A5. Must be 4 characters.
Thank you John, I have done what you said above....pry the ring off, tapped the slide off and removed the plastic buzzer activator. The plug still rotates in the shell but doesnt pull apart.
Do I need to tap it out? or rotate it a certain way?
PS- I did already buy an Autozone replacement key and lock but I am excited that the key is an original key....now I really want to remove it out of the lock!
The trouble:
There's a flat piece that covers the springs and tumblers. The flat piece would catch on the shell not allowing it to rotate back...therefore the key didnt come out.
I pushed in the flat piece as I rotated it back and presto- key came out.
Next question, what is this original 1976 key worth?
Secondly, since I dont have the round key for the accessory box, should I drill out the lock and then buy a new one? or is there an easier way to open it without a key?
Thank you John, I have done what you said above....pry the ring off, tapped the slide off and removed the plastic buzzer activator. The plug still rotates in the shell but doesnt pull apart.
Do I need to tap it out? or rotate it a certain way?
PS- I did already buy an Autozone replacement key and lock but I am excited that the key is an original key....now I really want to remove it out of the lock!
I hate to burst your bubble but that is not an original key. It says on it "FOR GM CARS". Originals just say "GM" in larger embossed letters. That is not a knock-out but just a rectangular design on the key.
As far as the compartments are concerned, would go to a dependable locksmith and have a key made for them. Believe the after market locks are of poor quality. The key in your picture above does have a knock out. A simple tap with a punch will do the trick.