Need help opening an old suitcase

[fur-elise]

Hello all, I've just gotten this vintage Skyway suitcase and didn't realize until I got home that it was locked (it was one of those days ). Any suggestions for opening this guy?

Any help is appreciated, I tried searching threads on here for similar scenarios but I'm still lost.

Thanks everybody!

Oh, I should also mention that I have almost no lockpicking experience outside of literally using a credit card to unlock my front door.

[Squelchtone]

that's a nice goodwill store find you got there.

People sell skyway luggage keys on ebay, but you have to get the correct key code. here's an example of such a key: http://www.ebay.com/itm/161790830207 but no guarantee that it would work on your suitcase.
Here's another one for less $$ http://www.ebay.com/itm/321833911006
Same one for $4.50 with free shipping www.ebay.com/itm/291517784324
and it's starting to look like they all have the same key code.. be worth to spend $4 bucks to find out =)

So, we normally pick locks for a hobby here, but not usually vintage suitcase locks, so I'm out of any other ideas for any quick tips or tricks on that sort of lock, maybe stop by a local locksmith shop and ask if they can stick something in the keyway that they have in stock which may be the correct key code and pop that open for you.

good luck
Squelchtone

[fur-elise]

Thank you, I did feel a little intrusive posting on this site only asking for help but this seemed like the only place I could find an answer!

Thanks for the advice.

[Squelchtone]

Thank you, I did feel a little intrusive posting on this site only asking for help but this seemed like the only place I could find an answer!

Thanks for the advice.

I just edited my reply, please take a peek at the additional links and comment I put in..

hope this helps, and come back and follow up with us if one of those keys actually worked.
Squelchtone

[fur-elise]

Thanks, Squelchtone! This has been really helpful.

Will follow up with updates

[GWiens2001]

Is it just me, or do those keys look the same?

Gordon

[fur-elise]

Gordon,

They do appear to be the same, as Squelchtone mentioned- I am going to order the cheapest one and cross my fingers!

Local locksmiths have been unable to open it so far, and of course Skyway doesn't sell keys from older pieces so this is my only hope (besides possibly damaging the suitcase )

Georgia

[dll932]

You may find a local locksmith shop that has an assortment of luggage keys, or perhaps a place that does leather/shoe/luggage repair. If so just bring it in and they can try a few to see if they have one.