Pre-71 Ignition Switch

Hi Folks-
Last night I was fiddling with a couple of old ignition switches I pulled out of the chicken house for the Triumph project. These are the same as used on pre-71 Commandos, simple on/off, hexagonal fixing nut. I can't figure how to get the key barrel out! What a dummy! Unlike the newer type, the access hole in the switch body is larger and off on the side of the unit. Any words of wisdom?
Thanks in advance.

Mike
Kansas, America
73 850 Roadster, 67 Bonnie, et al

Did some more fiddling with those old switches and I got 'em! Unlike the 71-up switch, there isn't an access hole to pop the cylinder out when it's locked. This is the switch used on '68, '69 and '70 Commandos with the chromed hexagonal fixing nut. After a lot of fooling around, I figured out how to pick them. Alarmingly easy when you get it down! You pick the lock and turn to the "on" position then the release pin will show itself in the access hole. Straightforward from there. Now to find a locksmith that isn't stymied by non-mainstream stuff. The local guys here in the middle of the plains look at me like I just landed on Earth in a fuschia spacecraft with "I ask stupid questions" tattoed on my forehead when I mention Lucas switches. :roll: Part of the fun, I reckon.

Mike
Kansas, America
A land deviod of locksmiths
73 850 Roadster, 67 keyless Bonnie et cetera

If you have trouble getting keys then they should be available in the UK from either a Norton parts supplier or a specialist key supplier.
If there is a code number on the lock barrel then you should probably be able to order the correct key/s to fit it. http://www.motorcycle-keys.com/

Hi Folks-
Update on the key situation. Found an old locksmith (Literally!) and he got me fixed up. This guy is one of the old-time locksmiths, found a code card that was close and went by hand from there. A dying breed, for sure. Bonus- he had skeleton key blanks so I can have a second key for the house, too!
Thanks for the replys and info once again. what a brain-trust this forum is!

Mike
Kansas, America
Old house, old keys, old bikes, etc....