Key Code for Neck/Ignition Tumblers

[tcb-1]

Gang,

When I bought my '50FL, the tumbler for the ignition was free allowing for operation with a trusty screwdriver (no key). While that's nice and convenient, I want to have the tumbler repaired eventually, soooooo..... On the face of the neck lock, there is a 4 digit code, actually a letter, numeral, numeral, numeral code. I wonder if this is the code that a knowledgable locksmith can duplicate a key to. Any ideas?

I know my '60 Cadillac had such a code and was able to get keys made.

Thanks!

[RUBONE]

The tumblers for the ignition on '48-'63 locks do not have pins and plates in them, therefore no key is required. A good locksmith can make it match your fork key. It would not be correct anymore, but peace of mind may be more valuable than correctness. However any key switch is easily overcome, so don't get too confident in it once it is functional.
Robbie

[tcb-1]

Robbie,
Yep, getting an ignition key would be more cosmetic than anything. They appear as if you could have bypassed them with a popsicle stick. However, I would like to have a neck lock key made. I think I'll call my old (operative word old) locksmith tomorrow with the code I found on the neck tumbler and see what he can come up with.

[Mr.Big]

Read the link........

http://www.caimag.com/forum/showthread. ... =lock+keys" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[oleblu72]

Read the link........

http://www.caimag.com/forum/showthread. ... =lock+keys" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

Thanks Mr. Big I might give this guy a call I need a couple of keys made.

Mark

[RUBONE]

The Briggs and Stratton locks used on H-D were very common parts shared by many US Car companies. Older lock shops and competent lock smiths were all familiar with them and unless they have modernized and thrown out their info they will have the key codes. I have had keys made and locks repaired in various shops over the years with good results. Even correct key blanks are still plentiful. It is nice when someone does specialize though as it makes it easy.
Robbie

[Lowbikemike]

If TCB has the correct year/style of ignition switch (no pins) then why would it have any codes on the face of it?

[RUBONE]

If TCB has the correct year/style of ignition switch (no pins) then why would it have any codes on the face of it?

The cylinder would not have codes. However most I've seen are capable of taking the internal parts to make them function and can be matched to his fork lock key, which is coded.
Robbie

[tcb-1]

Good info Mr. Big! Further, when calling around to locksmiths, ask for a Briggs and Stratton (groove #14) key.

I plan on having a key made to neck lock, then moving onto the ignition. I'll dismantle the ignition switch/tumbler next and check it for any codes.

[tcb-1]

Well, the code that was stamped on the neck tumbler head was spot on! My grizzly old locksmith friend was able to cut a trial key (before I have him cut the B&S blanks I'll get) and it worked perfectly.

Now to figure out why the neck lock isn't engaging. Oh well, one thing at a time.

Oh, and btw if your needing a key and don't want to spring for an nos Briggs and Stratton blank, you may also use these equivalents: Curtis B3 or Ilco 1098L.

[Panacea]

Well, the code that was stamped on the neck tumbler head was spot on! My grizzly old locksmith friend was able to cut a trial key (before I have him cut the B&S blanks I'll get) and it worked perfectly.

Now to figure out why the neck lock isn't engaging. Oh well, one thing at a time.

Oh, and btw if your needing a key and don't want to spring for an nos Briggs and Stratton blank, you may also use these equivalents: Curtis B3 or Ilco 1098L.

Have you had the stem out? If a later lower tree was used, the hole for the lock could be missing, or the lock plunger itself.

[tcb-1]

Panacea,

I believe the neck has never been replaced. However, I cannot confirm. It certainly "looks" like it's never been off, and everything (paint, patina) is a mirror image of the frame.

Since it the fork lock hasn't been used in I don't know how long, could the plunger be stuck? Would a couple of taps with a rubber mallet do anything??

[1957eberhart]

Hello
I have a 1957 fl and have a Briggs and Stratton key number b285 and it only go into the fork lock half way and not in the in at all.Do I have to take the fork lock out of the frame and does anyone know where to get a chrome fork lock cover for my 1957 fl ?

[jjohnson1177]

Is there any other place to look for the key code?. The cylinders are worn smooth on all 3 of mine and no numbers or letters are showing .

[UPSROD]

Is there any other place to look for the key code?. The cylinders are worn smooth on all 3 of mine and no numbers or letters are showing .

Your 60,61 And 63 should not have codes stamped in them because the cylinders are empty.