VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - GENERAL Radios, Tools, Accessories Key - Promotional tool

Argh! I don't know where this little promotional tool came from. Anyone have some ideas?

- James



and when it is open...



So what can anyone tell me about this?

- James

Hi James,

Your tool is listed in the Manual of Special Service Tools for Chevrolet. It is Tool Number KMO 1043. I am not exactly sure when this tool first appeared, however it was modified in 1934 and became number KMO 1043-B and was listed as applicable to the 1934-46 passenger cars and trucks. The major differences between the two versions was the removal of the electrolock nut and electrolock retainer nut tools in the 1043-B version.

They do not appear to be rare as I have several in my collection and see them for sale regularly.

Known as the "Key To Chevrolet Performance", this cool item was manufactured by Kent-Moore and it was first introduced in 1931. The "key" was available by special order through the Chevrolet Zone Office. The first issue of the "key" (the script was different as were the tools inside) was used through 1932, and it contained 9 tools and the second issue of the "key", which appeared in 1933, contained 11 tools, and the script was different on the "key" as well. In 1937. the screwdriver was dropped and a .040" spark plug gauge for the 216 engine was used instead. Your "key" is missing some of the tools. As Raymondo stated, this tool is not that rare and I see them for sale quite often.

You can read more about the "Key To Chevrolet Performance" in the May, 1988 issue of the G&D.