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Posted By: Oxenfree Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/09/23 07:13 PM
Hi there,

I've got a 1963 Impala SS numbers matching survivor in long term storage that I've finally got time to tinker on and hopefully drive this year. My purse was stolen several years ago with the original keys inside, which still causes me to cringe. I need key codes to get a new set cut and I'm wondering if anyone knows of a US company that has access to these codes based on the VIN number? I'm based in Canada, the car is originally from the US. We have a company here in Canada that can provide info on our vintage autos based on the VIN number but they cannot look up this info on vehicles originally sold in the US.

I've tried several US and Cdn Chevy dealerships and they say they don't have records going back far enough. I pulled the door lock and there's nothing that looks like a code stamped on it. My preference is to look up the key codes and get a new set cut before I resort to pulling/replacing the ignition and locks.

Any tips or advice greatly appreciated, thank you!

Holly
Posted By: Tiny Re: Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/09/23 08:35 PM
Some old time locksmiths may still have a 'master' key set. GM used a set number of codes and, in the day, many locksmiths had a set of keys cut to every code. They were on a large key ring. They would just try the keys in order until they found the one that worked that particular lock and then cut the customer a key to that code. From time to time they show up on ebay. I just checked and don't see any listed at this time. Some years ago I locked myself out of the trunk of my 38 and a local body shop had a home done set of keys (he kept extra keys over the years that he found in cars he worked on). I was lucky enough that one of those fit my 38's trunk lock. Hopefully someone has better news for you and will be along soon. Welcome to VCCA Chat.
Posted By: Chev Nut Re: Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/09/23 11:09 PM
The same ket code was useds for ALL GM CARS from 1935-1965. There is no such thing as a Master key. You could remoceone of the door lock cylinders and take to a good LOCK SMITH and ff he does not seea number he can cut a key from the tumblers in the cylinder.
The key nimbers ran in the 8000 and lower 9000 series.
Posted By: Tiny Re: Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/10/23 12:05 AM
Gene, sorry for the misunderstanding. I wasn't referring to a master KEY but what is referred to a master SET of keys.
Posted By: Chev Nut Re: Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/10/23 03:59 AM
i did not have your post in mind but when this subject comes up some one always mentions a master key.

The key number is usually stamped on the pawl attached to the lock cylonder
Posted By: Jeff1951 Re: Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/10/23 03:23 PM
The easiest way to get the key number is to remove the glove box lock and from there it is simple to remove the cylinder from the case. The number is usually stamped on that. You don't need a key to remove the cylinder. I have done many on different GM cars and any locksmith can do it- well, someone who is competent, anyway.
Jeff
Posted By: 35Mike Re: Key Codes - '63 Impala SS - 01/10/23 05:28 PM
I'm not sure about 1963, but on older Chevys, the door and ignition codes are the same. The trunk and glovebox codes match each other but are different from the ignition/door.
You could give your door/ignition key to a parking lot attendant and have your valuable items locked in the trunk and glovebox with the key in your pocket.
If you take your door lock and glovebox lock to an old time key shop, they should be able to solve your problem for you.
If you can find an 8000 or 9000 number on them, I can solve your problem for you.

Mike
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