1970 Corvette Alarm Key?

[William H.]

I have a 1970 Corvette that came in boxes and I'm trying to figure out my key situation. J is for the ignition and the K is for the locks/alarm? Or, was the B for the alarm? My VIN is 6507 (early March car). They all look original with plenty of use but not sure if somebody added a key? Thanks for the expert's opinion.

Regards,
Bill

[Michael G.]

Re: 1970 Corvette Alarm Key?

Most likely your alarm cylinder had been replaced with a '71 (B) cylinder. These electric switch cylinders were prone to corrosion and often needed to be replaced. You are correct, the alarm should be the (K) key operation along with the other locks.

[Kenneth B.]

Re: 1970 Corvette Alarm Key?

I see that 2 of the keys have the letter stamped side ways to the key & the alarm is stamped up & down. I thought all 70 keys were stamped up & down.

[Peter L.]

Re: 1970 Corvette Alarm Key?

Ken - Based on my experience, the keyway code letters, "J" & "K" stamped on the key shafts on examples of "original" 1970 Corvette keys stamped w/1970 GM KEY NUMBERs on the KNOCK OUTs in place &/or w/stamped KOs separate have had the keyway code letters stamped as on the "K" code key in Bill's photo. The 1970-1972 NCRS JUDGING MANUAL, 3rd Ed., p. 37 shows examples of original 1970 "J" & "K" keys with the keyway code letters oriented as on Bill's "K" key. There is also a discussion on the orientation of the code letters on p. 36 that indicates that the orientation of the code letter stamping on "originals may also have the letter oriented at a 45 degree angle" & that the orientation of the letter "simply indicates that the key was manufactured for Briggs & Stratton by a contractor." Who says that working on old cars isn't INTERESTING. Pete

[William H.]

Re: 1970 Corvette Alarm Key?

Thanks for everyone's help in solving my mystery. I'm concluding that the original Briggs and Stratton lock cylinder was replaced with a B code key and cylinder. Much appreciated.

[Kenneth B.]

Re: 1970 Corvette Alarm Key?

Thanks for everyone's help in solving my mystery. I'm concluding that the original Briggs and Stratton lock cylinder was replaced with a B code key and cylinder. Much appreciated.

I am in the same boat as you are. My 70 454 VIN 7601 has the later cylinder also& my extra set of keys are stamped like yours. & must have been replaced. It mist have been replaced for not working as the car had original paint & was not hit in the ass. My February built 70 LT-1 has the BS lock & key.