C2 Lock smith

[Ed S.]

Any recommendations for a person that repairs C2 locking cylinders? I have looked through the FORUM archives but can't find anyone that might still be in the business.

My problem is my ignition switch. I have 2 NOS good keys I got from Pete Lindahl several years ago. My ignition switch is all original - it works, i.e., starts, runs, shuts off, current is on in the ACC position but.... I can remove the key regardless of what position it is in. That needs a fix. I have found several threads that suggest "any local locksmith" for this kind of work - is this still the preferred option?

[Owen L.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

What year is your car? There were years prior to '67 (my oldest year currently) that allowed the key to be removed in some key positions but not all; this is from the '64 owner's manual:
Screenshot 2022-11-26 at 8.38.32 PM.jpg
I had a '63 Corvair in high school that allowed this but don't recall my '65 Corvette doing this.

[Gary B.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Ed,

The key positions when the ignition key should be able to be removed are not the same for all C2 years. So, you need to be clear about which year you’re referring to. From your profile I assume you’re talking about a ‘64. In which case Owen’s post gives the two allowable positions, LOCK and ON. When an ignition key can be removed in positions for which removal was not intended, several things might be the cause, and I suggest proceeding from simple and inexpensive, to more complicated and more expensive. The problem is typically caused by wear; 1) either wear of the key; 2) wear of the lock cylinder wafers; or 3) wear of the switch. Or often, a combination of 1 and 2. It sounds like you’ve done the simple thing, which is to get an NOS key blank and have it cut to code. Not duplicated from a worn key. If a new key, cut to code, doesn’t solve the problem, then the next thing is to remove the lock cylinder and have the six tumblers/wafers replaced with new ones. And yes, any competent locksmith can do that. Doing those two things solves the key removal problem 95% of the time.

However, if getting a new key cut to code and getting the lock cylinder wafers replaced doesn’t fix the problem, then another thing it can be is the ignition switch, which is typically the most expensive item to replace. It doesn’t require a locksmith to replace the switch, but you do need to find a good switch. I suggest using an NOS switch. The original switch for ‘64 was a Delco Remy 1116635, which I can predict with near certainty you will not find as an NOS example. That switch was replaced by Delco Remy 1116650. The 650 switch switch works identically to the 635 switch.

Gary

[Gary C.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Ed,

Steve Walker from New Mexico is restoring locks.

Gary
....

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Sorry - should have stated, it is a '64.

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Gary - thanks for the detailed explanation. Next step is to find a local LS that can replace the wafers in my cylinder. Hoping that will resolve the issue. Will report results.

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

There is a (C2 - key & lock) God! After calling several locksmiths in the Charlottesville VA area I finally found one that said he could repair a C2 ignition key cylinder. I took my cylinder to Albemarle Lock and Safe (https://www.albemarlelock.com/). I spoke to / worked with the owner, W Scott Megahan. He immediately recognized the cylinder. Long story short - less than 24 hours later I had my cylinder back with 6 new wafers and springs - parts & labor $35! I love this guy. I asked if he has a lot of wafers, springs, etc for vintage vehicle locks - he said, "thousands". I installed the cylinder and inserted keys I had made by the late Pete Lindahl several years ago - they worked perfectly, only come out when they are supposed to and the in & out and turning action is silky smooth with zero slop. Could not be happier.

[Gary B.]

[Harry S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Had a very similar problem as Ed. I could not get the key to turn left. It would not go to OFF or more to the left to remove the lock using a paperclip.

I took a pair of plyers and forced the bezel left. It popped the chrome lock bezel off and I was able to pull the ignition switch out with the lock installed.

The local lock smith removed the lock, added all new wafers and now it's perfect. Cost was $35.00 plus the cost of the two new bezels.

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

He purchased Pete Lindahl's equipment & stockpile of parts, essentially took over from Pete after Pete passed away.

[Harry S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

He purchased Pete Lindahl's equipment & stockpile of parts, essentially took over from Pete after Pete passed away.

Didn't he have a spot at the Frisco Regional? Nice guy!

[John D.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Good post friends as it brought back memories of our pal Pete Lindahl. He and I were close friends and I could tell many storeis about Pete.
Here's one: He was a prankster. I had one original key from my '63 coupe. Plating was off and it was mostly brass.
I sent it to Pete and he made copies of it. Send me blanks to test in my ignition switch. Then he made the real deal keys with knockouts.
Now here's the punch line. Pete had a key from a Corvair that had the same key number as mine.
He brought it to a regional meet at Marlborough Mass. He showed it to the team leader and said it was an original key from my '63 which was being judged. The team leader was not impressed and walked away saying no no no. It was so funny.
That was the good old days friends. May Pete rest in peace. John

[Ed S.]

Re: C2 Lock smith

Don't know, wasn't there. Pete's wife informed me that he took over Pete's business. Glad that these obscure technical services are being perpetuated by enthusiasts. Keeps the hobby going.

[Gary B.]