Date:         Fri, 25 Apr 2003 04:21:43 -0400
Reply-To:     BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ben T <BenTbtstr8@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: replacing lock cylinders + ignition switch
Comments: To: Oxroad@aol.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1

In a message dated 4/24/2003 12:56:54 AM Eastern Standard Time, Oxroad@AOL.COM writes:

> I'm suspecting the ignition is a PIA and pricey :(

Jeff,

You may want to try your local locksmiths. mine charges $12 per lock to rekey. Cheaper if you only want two keys. The only hassle is drilling the small hole to remove your ignition switch. The locksmiths can do this too.

If you are handy you can switch the pins around but you'd need another key to use which does not match your old one. I've done these myself though find myself frustrated by the size if the parts relative to my stubby fingers.

I'm not sure what year your Westy is. IIRC it may be an early (pre-85) model. If it is the later style, one of my local vendor still has complete new sets of Vanagon locks (doors, slider, rear hatch, and ignition). I forgot how much it was. Mike Miller might remember since I got a quote for him not too long ago. In his case, he had his locks rekeyed instead to save money. New locks are best for hose who have crummy ones to begin with. New ones also with nice rubber-headed VW factory keys.

BenT