Key broke...

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Nov 4, 2004 | 02:01 PM

Higgin

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Senior User

Joined: Mar 2004

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From: Indianapolis, IN

Key broke...

I know this probably dosen't fit in this forum, but wasn't sure where to put it, and you guys have helped out awesome on other things already. I have an aluminum toolbox for my ranger, and I broke the key off inside the lock. Was just wondering if anyone knew of a way to remove it, short of going to a locksmith. Thanks in advance for any help....

Nov 4, 2004 | 03:38 PM

G2IC_Wraith

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: Dec 2003

Posts: 1,436

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From: Virginia

I realize the answer is likely "no", but is the box open? If it is can you take the lock apart from the back. I work in server rooms and lots of morons brake the keys off in the locks on server racks.

The other ways I have removed key parts is to JB Weld something to the end and pull it out. Sometimes superglue or solider works too.

Nov 4, 2004 | 03:40 PM

pawpaw

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Joined: Jan 2004

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From: SW Va

Can you see the portion that is broken off, or is it buried deep inside the tumbler????

Nov 4, 2004 | 04:48 PM

Higgin

Thread Starter

Senior User

Joined: Mar 2004

Posts: 219

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From: Indianapolis, IN

Yes, the box is open, and that was exactly what I was thinking about doing G2IC_WRAITH, taking the lock out, and then just gluing something to the end of the broke key and trying to pull it out. Yes, I can see the broken off portion of it.

Nov 4, 2004 | 05:44 PM

pawpaw

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From: SW Va

If you can see the broken off portion, then I'd use a straight pin or needle to apply a very small coating, just enough to dampen the broken edge of the end of the key you have.

DON'T apply too much, as it will squeeze out & bond the tumblers. All you need is enough to just dampen the broken edge.

Then slowly blow your breath into the lock cylinder, to add plenty of surface moisture to the broken edge. This will help the adhesive react instantly to bond the two ends together when they touch.

Then insert the broken part into the lock such that the broken edges match.

You could hold it in place with something like "Duct Seal", modeling clay, or maybe tape & give it plenty of time to dry.

Let us know how you do!!!!

Nov 4, 2004 | 08:30 PM

Thoth88

Mountain Pass

Joined: Jan 2004

Posts: 213

Likes: 3

From: Phx/Az

I was and to remove a broken key in a mini van door lock, used 2 X-acto knife blades, careful not to cut myself, one down each side of the key then pressed the blades together and pulled it out.

Now the real magician was the lock smith who took the partical key and made a brand new one that works, whiah was graet as the other keys were stolen.