VCCA Home Forums TECHNICAL - 1945 AND EARLIER 1937-1945 Lock cylinder removal on ignition switch

I've got a nice electrolock ignition switch/wire for my 1938 panel truck, but it doesn't have a key. I have another ignition switch of the same vintage, which has a key but a bad wire/sheathing. Is there a way to remove the lock cylinders and exchange them? I see on the face of the switch, next to the key slot, a very tiny hole--which must be involved in releasing the cylinder (if, indeed, possible). I've tried inserting a stiff wire in the hole, but have had no luck; I've checked the shop manual and construction manual, but don't find any information.

Can this be done? If so, how?

Thanks!

Jim

You have to insert a wire into the hole, push down a spring loaded stop and then turn the cylinder (most are counterclockwise) to release the cylinder. A good locksmith should be able to profile the lock then make a key or pick the lock and get the cylinder to release, read the code and make a key. There is also a master key set that has the '35-6? keys. If you find someone with a set you can try keys until the lock works then duplicate the key code.

Most are CCW I read from various posts but my '38 coupe is CW. For my '38 you turn the key to the on position then stick a wire into the hole. You'll feel a spring resistance when you're in the right spot. When you have it pushed in, turn the cylinder a bit further CW and it'll pull right out. Have you tried turning it? Many of these old cylinders are so worn that anything will turn them. I used a church key (can opener) as a 'key' in my old panel truck.