QuestionQUESTION: How can I remove the ignition lock on a 63 T-Bird when the key is missing? I have purchased a new Ignition Lock but I am unable to remove the old one without the key.
Thanks,
Thomas
ANSWER: The only way to do this without damaging the lock is to call a locksmith to make a key for the existing lock - or have him take the lock apart for you. He will have the tools and skill to do this. He may require proof of ownership before he will do this.
Dick
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QUESTION: Since I already have a new lock I think damaging the old lock is probably not a big deal. Much cheaper than having a locksmith make a house call.
Thanks,
Thomas
AnswerI'm probably making a mistake by venturing beyond what I really know (I'm not a locksmith), but I think to remove the bezel that holds the switch in, you need to turn the switch backwards beyond the last normal switch position, then pull the lock cylinder out the front of the switch, then you can unscrew the bezel. The reason you need the old key is that you cannot turn the switch backwards beyond the stop without the key, and even then you have to depress a release spring through a tiny hole in the cylinder face. I'm sure you can brute force it - I'm just worried about the possible damage if you slip and scratch something else.
You can get a key for the old switch without a house call if you take one of the door locks out of the door to a locksmith and get him to make a key for that - it will be the same key, unless someone has switched locks in the car. The door lock is a lot easier to get out of the door - you might be able to just extract the holding spring from under the weatherstrip on the door and have the lock fall out in your hands.
That's what I would do - but it's your car!
Dick
