Replacement keys

[paddy]

Hi,

It looks like I've lost the keys to the Elan

Other than getting new locks with keys, what are the options? Can keys be cut, or are NOS barrels available.

And no, I don't have the numbers

Thanks in advance.

Paddy

[StressCraxx]

On my late S3, the key blank was for an MGB. You can have a competent locksmith make you new keys.

[billwill]

They are very common lock barrels, as used in many filing cabinets etc.


The number will be on the barrel, but it's almost impossible to get the barrel out intact if you don't have its key.

You could stymie any thieves by fitting non standard barrels such as those which use a cylindrical key. Ages ago when I had similar problems I fitted the doors with key barrels that needed keys with both edges shaped. I still have them fitted now.

Once these non-standard barrels prevented the police from opening my S3 Coupe & so I left fine-free after parking for an excess time in Soho.

[reb53]

Once these non-standard barrels prevented the police from opening my S3 Coupe & so I left fine-free after parking for an excess time in Soho.

I'm intrigued.
Why did they need to open your car, what were they planning on doing if they had been able to, and what prevented them from issuing you an infringement notice regardless ?
If you've found a loophole I want to know about it !

Ralph.

[billwill]

Once these non-standard barrels prevented the police from opening my S3 Coupe & so I left fine-free after parking for an excess time in Soho.

I'm intrigued.
Why did they need to open your car, what were they planning on doing if they had been able to, and what prevented them from issuing you an infringement notice regardless ?
If you've found a loophole I want to know about it !

Ralph.

I don't really recall what the rules were back then in the 70's, I just seem to remember that they found it amusing and let me off. I think that the policeman who was expecting to drive my Elan to the pound was dis-appointed. The police used to like Elans back then, modern younger policemen usually don't even know what they are

They were trying to open it, with a huge bunch of keys, because it had been parked there too long. (I was browsing in "Dark they were and Golden Eyed"). Possibly it was before the Authorities switched to using take-up trucks that do not need to open the car. (though much later (1990's ?) I did manage to rescue my Elan in Mayfair after they had actually fitted the slings, and they let me off that time too.

[alan.barker]

I had a similar thing happen when i had an Austin Cooper S.
They couldn't open the doors because i had fitted Lander Locks in the Body.
Alan

[Gordon Sauer]

I’ve seen a good locksmith make a key from scratch, and it’s particularly easy if they start with the right slotting on the key, and I’m pretty sure that’s the same for all Elan’s, maybe start by buying just a key blank Gordon

[paddy]

Thanks for all the replies.

Due to the kindness of another forum member, I now have working keys, and just need to get replacements cut.

Paddy

[billwill]

Get a spare set too to keep at home.

[alan.barker]

If you remove all the Barrels and the keys are the same series e.g. TS OR FS. You can change the Wards around so the same Key fits all the Doors etc.
Alan
P.s. if you find a good Key that fits don't show us a photo of it. Keys can be cut using photos.

[ericbushby]

Hi Paddy,
If you have the number, keys are readily available on ebay.
Eric in Burnley

[paddy]

Thanks again for the replies. I do now have replacements on order - a combination of original period keys of the correct number, and keys cut to spec. Lets see how they work.

Paddy

[nomad]

Please tell how another member came to your aid? Just happened to have the correct set????

Triple C will cut and send the correct key for all British vehicles if you have the number. Used them for years.

Kurt

[smo17003]

Found this old topic. viewtopic.php?f=16&t=7460
Apparently Austin only ever used 14 different key numbers for their 1100 range (S3 handle/lock), which should make finding a matching key slightly easier.

[paddy]

Please tell how another member came to your aid? Just happened to have the correct set???

Yes, exactly that There were working keys in a very small random collection.

Paddy