Lost my key

Supercat · May 8, 2020

Hey all,

I've lost my key and just ordered a new tumbler and lock for my original 4 position switch. Am I going to be able to change tumblers without the original key? It's a 72 roadster.

Thanks!

J

Peavey Jeltz · May 8, 2020

Yes, it's easy. The tumbler assembly is held in the switch by a small spring-loaded pin which is accessed through a hole in the switch body. Use a small drift to push in the pin and then grab the front of the tumbler assembly with fingers or pliers and it should pull out. The new tumbler will pop in, but it does take a little effort.

Supercat · May 8, 2020

Phew

! Thank you Peavey Jeltz!!

cliffa · May 8, 2020

There's a worthwhile upgrade you can do while it's off as well..

Norton Owners Club of NSW - How to Rebuild a Lucas ignition Switch to Better than New

Post date: Dec 25, 2011 12:33:37 PM

www.nocnsw.org.au

After that it will probably last another 50 years.

Cheers,

cliffa.

ashman · May 8, 2020

A locksmith can make a key from your original tumbler.

Ashley

Supercat · May 8, 2020

cliffa said:
There's a worthwhile upgrade you can do while it's off as well..

Norton Owners Club of NSW - How to Rebuild a Lucas ignition Switch to Better than New

Post date: Dec 25, 2011 12:33:37 PM

www.nocnsw.org.au

After that it will probably last another 50 years.

Cheers,

cliffa.

Thanks Cliffa, I actually did that a couple of summers ago when I was rebuilding the bike

. It is a great upgrade and I've had no trouble with the switch since then. Not counting loosing the key and having to hotwire it for every ride since fall...

Supercat · May 8, 2020

ashman said:
A locksmith can make a key from your original tumbler.

Ashley

Thanks Ashley, I the tumbler and keys already on the way from BCS for what seems to be an excellent deal. I will hold onto the original tumbler though and may end up going to a locksmith if the new one gives me any trouble.

acadian · May 8, 2020

Unless your completely committed to authenticity in keeping the original switch, there are more robust (and cheaper) switch options

Beach · May 8, 2020

Peavey Jeltz said:
Yes, it's easy. The tumbler assembly is held in the switch by a small spring-loaded pin which is accessed through a hole in the switch body. Use a small drift to push in the pin and then grab the front of the tumbler assembly with fingers or pliers and it should pull out. The new tumbler will pop in, but it does take a little effort.

I think that pin is only in the right spot when unlocked.

dobba99 · May 9, 2020

When you get the tumbler assembly out they sometimes stamped the key code on the barrel usually a three digit code and they are usually an FS series key so take that info to any reputable key shop and they can order you a new key.

batrider · May 9, 2020

There are a number of people I found on-line a while back who specialize in British keys and can cut a new key if you send them the code on the tumbler.
I also remember reading that you need to unlock it to get the holes to line up to remove the tumbler. There should be a detailed thread on this from the past.

gortnipper · May 9, 2020

FS should be stamped on one side of the key slot on the face of the barrel and the key number on the other side of the slot. For all to see...just order a new set of keys.

Peavey Jeltz · May 9, 2020

Beach said:
I think that pin is only in the right spot when unlocked.

No key in the photo. Key was removed before disassembly in the off and locked position. Locks may apparently vary.

baz · May 10, 2020

acadian said:
Unless your completely committed to authenticity in keeping the original switch, there are more robust (and cheaper) switch options

What ignition switch is this?

Supercat · May 10, 2020

acadian said:
Unless your completely committed to authenticity in keeping the original switch, there are more robust (and cheaper) switch options

Thanks Acadian, I do really like the original 4 position switch for some reason. I'm not completely sure why, but I definitely like it. Maybe because I rebuilt it myself by hand, maybe because it's so different for all the other switches in my life... not sure, but I would definitely like to stick with it even though there are other great options. Thanks for this one, I appreciate it.

Supercat · May 10, 2020

dobba99 said:
When you get the tumbler assembly out they sometimes stamped the key code on the barrel usually a three digit code and they are usually an FS series key so take that info to any reputable key shop and they can order you a new key.

Thanks Dobba99, I've already got the new tumbler and set of keys on the way. It was an excellent deal though, and I plan on keeping the original tumbler in case I run into any issues with the new one, and in case my original keys turn up.

Supercat · May 10, 2020

batrider said:
There are a number of people I found on-line a while back who specialize in British keys and can cut a new key if you send them the code on the tumbler.
I also remember reading that you need to unlock it to get the holes to line up to remove the tumbler. There should be a detailed thread on this from the past.

Thanks Batrider, yes, this is my fear. I came across a thread that appeared to indicate that the original key was required to get the tumbler out, but I think it was for a slightly different switch. I hope it was for a slightly different switch. This worry was the reason behind this post. I was assured by the fellow I've bought the new tumber and keys from that the original key is not required to remove the tumbler. Hopefully him and Peavey Jeltz are right! I guess I may as well go out to the shed and try to get the tumbler out why I wait for the new parts to arrive. I'll post an update when I do.

Supercat · May 10, 2020

gortnipper said:
FS should be stamped on one side of the key slot on the face of the barrel and the key number on the other side of the slot. For all to see...just order a new set of keys.

Thanks Gortnipper, I already had the tumbler and keys ordered before posting... dummy me... I'll know for next time.

Supercat · May 10, 2020

Beach said:
I think that pin is only in the right spot when unlocked.

Thanks Beach, I hope this isn't the case! The guy I bought it from assured me that I could remove the original tumbler without the key for this switch. Very much hoping that him and Peavey Jelts are correct on this one!

acadian · May 10, 2020

baz said:
What ignition switch is this?

It's a harley barrel key switch, 3 position, I have them on all my brit bikes (there's no 4 position option that I know of ). I was just tired of the issues I was having with the lucas switches (original and replacements), tumblers wearing out, ignition cutting when switching to lights etc... I know they can be made to function well, but for $30, these barrel switches have been rock solid (and I never have to worry about the key falling out!)

Lost my key

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