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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1966 Mustang ignition - lost key

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Expert: - 2/29/2008


Question
I've lost the ignition key to my 1966 Mustang Fastback - price quotes I've received from local locksmiths to come out and cut me a new key seem outrageous.  I can buy an ignition cylinder with a key from classic mustang mail order stores for much less, and would like to simply replace the cylinder if possible.  How does one remove an ignition cylinder if one does NOT have the key?  Thanks in advance, Dave

Answer
If you are good with an electric drill you drill the cylinder out of the switch mechanism. The trick is to drill out the lock barrel without damaging the switch if you can. Start with a small bit, 1/8th inch or so, drill about an inch deep and go to a bigger drill bit. My advice for what it is worth not knowing your level of skill with tools? pay the lock smith.
Brad

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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