paintedbus wrote ...

hey justin, can i pull the ignition tumbler out the same as a door tumbler? I re-wafered my doors, but since my ignition is half burned out I haven't bothered w/ it yet. Currently it turns with a screwdriver, subaru key, thumbnail, door key etc. So if I need to get a new ignition switch first, then I will wait. If I can pull the tumbler and swap the housing later then I will ask for at least one 64 bug blank My key is a very old backup key, but not the OG. As a matter of fact, none of the 5 vw's I have had have EVER had the OG key. It would be nice

markdearing wrote ...

hey justin Save me 2 blanks that I can get you to cut for me at grannys for a 62 bus later md

SteelersBus wrote ...

Dave, not sure why they'd be turnin tight. Unless some of the lock parts that were still on the doors got painted??

They are fairly easy to remove and install. Hardest part is removin the door panel without breakin clips. After that, it's too 6mm alan screws.

To check to see if it's the door or the handle, remove the handle from the door. Try the key in it while it's off the door. If it's workin smoothly, we move onto checkin the door mechanism.
If the key turns tight while off the door, most likely the lock needs disassembled and cleaned/lubricated. 30+ years of road travelin, dust, and just general sittin builds alot of grime up inside the lock cylinder.

Take one off the door and see where we are. Let me know and we'll go from there. OR, I'll take a look at GGB!

Thanks, Justin

If not, sounds like they just need a good cleanin.

SteelersBus wrote ...

Dave, what Snoopy mentioned will work. But i'd suggest removing the lock completely so that you can wipe all the grime I mentioned and lubricate the moving parts and springs. If you've already removed the door panel to loosen the two allen screws, you're already there to clean and lubricate the lock.

Tomasz, experience with a pre 59 Bus? Zero experience. But I do have 13 years in locksmithing. Worked 9 years full time as a residential/commercial locksmith. During that time, I took 100s of auto locks and cylinders apart. When gaining your locksmith knowledge, its mostly a hands on learning. You are educated in basic lock and cylinder repairs. Then you apply that knowledge to the various keys and locks out there.
My Volkswagen experience is just from ownin three Buses and messin with the locks I've owned. Also, I've done repairs and rewafered locks for Volks who wanted them the same. But full on straight VW experience? No, I don't have strictly VW locksmithing experience.
About two months ago, I contacted Gabriel Garcia aka gabvwkeys on Samba. Talked to him on the phone for an hour about VW locls and keys. He told me how he thought that the east coast could use a VW lock and key guy. Due to his health, he's now doin VW work part time.
So between my general locksmithing experience and Gabriel's suggestions, I'm givin it a shot.
And yes, between a new factory cut key and fresh wafers inside the ignition, the key shouldn't be able to come out of the lock. Unless its like the old Jeep Cherokees that seemed to do that from factory!
I'll get back to ya on the rekeying quote.

Thanks! Justin

SteelersBus wrote ...

No problem, Tomasz, I'd suggest Gabriel. He's a great guy! Also, there used to be Mark1vws out of Maryland. But I think he got out of the VW locks and keys. I can't find anything about locks on his website.

I don't have spare handles that old, yet. I'll check into a new spring.

I'm here if you need me.

Thanks, Justin

Tomasz wrote ...

I've sent him a PM a couple of weeks ago via Samba with no reply. So now looking for someone else to do the job.

Kudzu wrote ...

Justin & Snoopy - What do you recommend for lubing the lock cylinders? In the old days it was graphite, but now it seems the product of choice is a spray can of Houdini. What are your thoughts on this?

Tomasz wrote ...

I would feel more comfortable now sending the locks out. Awaiting the quote.

The key does not appear new, so I do not know if it's the key or the ignition. I'd like to have it fixed though.

btw, the driver handle needs a spring if that's something you do as well?

Thanks,

Tomasz

vwgirl wrote ...

thats a lot of locks! engine lid lock for a 78 bay for me... and will need a vanagon handle but i forget which side....

SteelersBus wrote ...


I'll add you to the starting list of Volks who want a locking lid lock.
I have a couple Vanagon door handles. But they are pretty well weathered.