Repinning (Mods: Please check if this question is ok)

[heydonms]

I have a feeling this thread might be banned on the open forums, hopefully a kind mod will decide otherwise due to the simple nature of the questions *please*

I have several locks from a ford falcon, they are pin tumbler locks and are already removed from the car, it seems to me that the information I am after isn't specific to automotive locks and I can't see how it would help anyone break into one, so hopefully this thread will be allowed to continue.

I have 6 locks, I want to repin 3 of them to match the key of the the 1st one (two can be used for parts/left over). Now on to the questions...

How standard are the pin dimensions? I know different manufacturers use different depths for their locks, but how much do diameters vary? Do I need a repinning kit that is specific to this lock or could I use a random kit from the local hardware store (assuming the pins have the right depths). If not, anyone in australia know where I could source a small number of suitable pins and springs? (I'm assuming I can reuse my drivers)

While writing this, it just occurred to me that if I can't find pins that are exactly the right depth, I could get some that are too long, put the key in the lock and sand/file them until they are flush with the top of the plug, is this likely to work (assuming I'm careful) or am I more likely to stuff everything up?

-- Michael

[JackNco]

any auto discussion is limited to the advanced forums.

Its not my place to tell you what to do but you will find the mods are much friendlier if you don't post threads and ask them to clean them up if they are wrong.

Stick to the forum rules and PM the relevant mod if you are unsure. chances are some people (like me) will find them before the mods.

All the best

John

PS i wouldn't recommend grinding down pins on any locks. it will cause excessive wear. (IMHO)

[Schuyler]

get a universal kit. LAB makes them, you can find them on ebay, you can mod your own pins if you need, but make sure to debur them. I've never heard of an auto lock with a pin tumbler mechanism. You're not talking about picking them, which is positive, but we have previously practiced a zero tolerance policy on auto stuff.

Feel free to PM me if you have any questions related to why I'm locking your thread.

I'll put this out to any of the other mods - I'm on the fence here, if you decide it's kosher, feel free to unlock it.

Locked for the time being.

[Schuyler]

Also - if you can reuse your drivers, why wouldn't you be able to reuse your springs? I know this is locked and you can't answer that, but I just wanted to point it out.

Also - I really appreciate that even though your question wasn't specific to automotive locks, you still provided all relevant information, specifically, what locks you were working on.

You also made it clear you were cognizant of the rules, which is generally positive. Good to know you've read them.

But then, there have been threads on rekeying and universal kits and where to purchase pins and many things of that nature, so I feel like searching could have helped you out a lot here and I wonder if you did before you posted.

Again, I know you can't respond here as this is locked, but I just figured I would make my continuing thought process clear...

[zeke79]

You will need an old ford pin tumbler pin kit. A LAB universal kit will not work with these locks.

[Schuyler]

You will need an old ford pin tumbler pin kit. A LAB universal kit will not work with these locks.

Ahhhh, cool. Different diameter of pins?

Sorry to lead you astray, man. Glad zeke's here In theory could he take his spares and do as he had been suggesting doing?