Posted 2008-07-09 5:33 PM (#87164) Subject: How to obtain key?
Member
Posts: 5
Location: Atlanta
I purchased a used trailer and the previous owner has no idea where the key for the trailer is, and I am trying to figure out the easiest way to either #1. get a key made, #2. change the actual locking mechanism or #3 replace the entire latch all together.
As far as getting a key made, I have tried to call the manufacturer (keifer) who was really helpful, but told me that they no longer use the same locks that are in my trailer (an 02), and gave me another number to call...which was a dead end, for at least just having someone mail me a key that matched my VIN number.
So...how hard would it be to do #2 or #3? Which would be easiest for ME to do, or do I need to take my trailer to my trailer guy?
Posted 2008-07-09 7:45 PM (#87170 - in reply to #87164) Subject: RE: How to obtain key?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
As Retento suggested, a locksmith can rekey locks, or make new keys for old locks. I had this done on an antique car, in which new locks were prohibitively expensive. By rekeying an old lock, the price was nominal.
If the door is open and you can remove the lock assembly, take the whole thing to the locksmith. It is an easy job for him, and often can be accomplished while you wait. It is also possible to have the rest of your locks rekeyed to the same key, a feature that many older trailers don't enjoy.
Posted 2008-07-09 8:11 PM (#87171 - in reply to #87170) Subject: RE: How to obtain key?
Member
Posts: 5
Location: Atlanta
It would have never occured to me to disassemble the lock and take it in...I bet that would be A LOT cheaper than having them come to me... I think the locks are all keyed the same on this trailer, as it isn't that old, but is really that uncommon to have all the locks match? My old trailer was a 1989 Hart and only had 1 key for both locks.
Posted 2008-07-09 8:59 PM (#87174 - in reply to #87164) Subject: RE: How to obtain key?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
On one of my trailers, I actually have two keys. The drop downs, escape door and mid tack are on one, the main LQ door is a second. On my other trailer, I only have one key that opens all of the locks.
If you're not sure if the locks are keyed the same, take two separate locks to the locksmith to double check. You can usually remove many of them in a half a minute with a #2 phillips screwdriver. Why pay a locksmith for a service call, when you can easily do it yourself?
Posted 2008-07-21 10:18 AM (#87818 - in reply to #87164) Subject: RE: How to obtain key?
Regular
Posts: 84 Location: Crestwood, KY
My hubby took our Merhow to a local locksmith today to have new keys made. The locksmith ran the key codes (which were on a build sheet posted in the dressing room) and discovered which key it needed. It was only $25 for both keys.
Posted 2008-07-22 1:45 PM (#87919 - in reply to #87164) Subject: RE: How to obtain key?
New User
Posts: 1
Hi, I worked for a trailer dealership for over a year and learned a thing or two about locks and keys from the Shop Manager. I would try taking the back plate off of the lock to determine if there is an 800# in there that you can call for replacement keys and/or determine what type of lock it actually is. Often a dealership will have sets and sets of old keys so a dealership might be able to help you as well.
Perhaps pursuing the issue through Keifer further if no luck on your own. Or as suggested in another email call a locksmith and get it re-keyed.
Can't Keifer suggest a replacement lock that would fit the existing hole(s)?
How to obtain key?
