Well heck, the PO of the truck I just bought has lost the spare key to the ignition, and the key that opens the tailgate and unlocks the spare tire.
First question, is the key to the tailgate and spare tire the same key or are they different?
Second question, is there any simple way to have new keys cut for these things? Thanks for your help.

 

What year?

 

Ignition, doors, tailgate and spare tire lock cylinder SHOULD all be keyed the same. Now a replacement tailgate or spare tire lock is possible. But they should all be keyed the same from the factory.

Since you only have one key now, you'll have to return to the dealer for a reprogram once you obtain another key. If you had two like keys (originals) you can program a third. Keys can be found on e-bay, or through Tousley Ford parts online (site sponsor)

 

Sorry, it's a 2006 F150 FX4

 

If they are all keyed the same, then you would think that the one key I have would fit, but the only thing it fits is the door and the ignition. It'll go in but it want turn at all.

 

It's possible that the tailgate and spare tire lock are rusted solid. The spare lock corrodes easily. Take some PB Blaster lubricant and crawl under the truck. From the backside of the bumper, thoroughly coat the crap out of the lock cylinder. From the front, take the key end or a small stick and open the lock "door" and insert the spray straw into the cylinder core. Again coat the crap out of the core. This might help.

If not, then you'll have to break the spare tire lock.

Using the same method for the spare tire lock, you can spray the inside of the tailgate lock too. Insert the spray straw and coat it. Might take a couple sprays over a few days.

PB Blaster is good stuff, even though it smells horrible. If you get it on your clothes, those clothes will become rags or be thrown out.

Hope that helps.

 

Ok, thanks, I'll give that a try.

 

Thanks for the tip MC. I squirted some pbblaster up in there and then stuck the key in and worked it around a little bit and both the tailgate and the sparetire lock freed up nice.
Thanks again for the help.

 

Glad I could be of assistance.

It's good peace of mind to lock and unlock those cylinders monthly or so. The spare tire lock especially. Keeping them lubed is a good thing.

 

I use direlectic tune up grease from Permatex to cover back of tire lock
will stay in place and not run in the heat like reg grease.keeps water and dirt out. refresh spring and late fall.