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LOST....my keys

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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 06:39 AM
  #1  
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LOST....my keys

Hey Guys,

Like the title says I lost my keys and I'm looking for options.
The truck is locked and keys are gone. I called the dealer and was told that Ford doesn't keep key codes past 10 years and their only choice was replace the steering column at $1000.
Called a locksmith and they said they could come out and "try" for $300-700 but could not guarantee any results. So I'm kind of in a tight spot right now.
The good news is that time isn't a huge issue as I have another vehicle to drive for the short term.

So what's everyone's thoughts on this? Are there other options? The key I had was not chipped.

Thanks
 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 07:24 AM
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Just regular metal keys with no security chips?? Ford 7 cut non security keys should be childs play for a good lock smith. Door lock only uses 4 of seven cuts so he'll start with that and once inside finish the cuts to operate the ignition cylinder.

A lock smith that says he can't do an old ford is not a very good lock smith.

It will cost several hundred dollars for a mobile visit, decoding the locks and cutting the keys but shouldn't be more than 300 to 350.


Least expensive option is to break in to the truck and replace all locks with a kit that has them keyed alike. To get the one out of the steering column follow these instructions I found in a 10 year old post

-Break off the "wings" where you put the key in.
- Tap a large screwdriver into the key slot. Tap firmly but don't "drive" it in. Try to use a screwdriver with wrench flats below the handle.
- Force the lock to the RUN position while pushing in on the driver as hard as you can manage. This is to prevent it from camming out. Once it starts to shear, the cylinder will turn pretty easily.
-Depress the pin as usual and remove the cylinder. It will often come out on the tip of the screwdriver.
-Install the replacement cylinder as usual.
-Replacements come with only the ignition portion of the key cut. You can have a door lock decoded and have the key cut to match.
This destroys the lock cylinder internally without damaging the column.

Something like this but maybe not this particular kit

Amazon Amazon
 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 07:26 AM
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Truck being locked doesn't help any. Is there a lock on the gate? Just spitballing here, could you get one of those locks out and determine the key code off of it?
 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 07:37 AM
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Any chance the keys are inside the truck?? If so a lock smith will have a set of plastic wedges and a small pump up air bag that can be used to open the door enough to hit a lock button or pull a lock with rubber coated wire that won't tear up the door seals
 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 07:57 AM
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[QUOTE=AllaboutMPG;20046111].

A lock smith that says he can't do an old ford is not a very good lock smith.


^^^ My thoughts exactly....

Thanks for the quick replies guys.

No the keys are gone, they went out with the recycling. We contacted them and they said that it was very unlikely to find them but that they would keep an eye out.

I have a buddy who has all the tools to get the door open so when he is able I will have him over for that and then check the ideas you shared Paul. There is no lock on the tailgate, that I remember anyways. I'll double check that tonight though. That would be super handy!

 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 08:01 AM
  #6  
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Years ago I wanted some extra keys for my truck. Auto parts store made me some plane metal blank keys and they all worked fine on the door locks and ignition. I have used these stamped metal keys for years and don't even use the keys that came with the truck. (but I know where they are if I need to make more).

This will not help the OP to get his truck open, just to let everyone else know that you can use a metal cut key with no 'chip' in it (does the original have a chip?).
 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 09:44 AM
  #7  
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Excursions and PATS F-series only.

 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 06:48 PM
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Try another locksmith, I can't imagine these are all that hard to impression a key for.
 
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Old Sep 2, 2021 | 07:20 PM
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Once you get into the truck, I seem to recall reading recently that you can find the key code on the PS door lock cylinder. Don't know how accurate that is, but might be worth checking before you replace the locks. Ford might not keep the codes on file, but I would think they or a good locksmith should be able to cut it if you provide the code.
 
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