cedarbreak
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Post by cedarbreak on Dec 9, 2023 13:24:21 GMT -8
We have a 1950 Royal Mansion and only one key for the original lock. We would like to have someone put in a keyless entry pad if we cannot find someone to make a key copy (which has proven impossible so far). Does anyone know where we can get a key copy made...or how we could get a keyless entry installed? We are located out of Austin Texas. Thanks in advance!!!
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nccamper
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1962 Forester- 1956 Shasta
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Post by nccamper on Dec 9, 2023 16:02:05 GMT -8
Welcome!
That’s a first…I’ve never seen keyless entry on a vintage camper. Hopefully someone more knowledgeable will chime in.
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cedarbreak
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Post by cedarbreak on Dec 9, 2023 18:57:04 GMT -8
Welcome! That’s a first…I’ve never seen keyless entry on a vintage camper. Hopefully someone more knowledgeable will chime in. We have a 1975 Airstream International that has one so we are hoping we can find someone who can do the same with the Spartan! I know it's a longshot but I am hopeful!!! |
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John Palmer
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Hi, From a vintage trailer guy located in Santa Ana, CA. It's good to see lots of activity here.
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Post by John Palmer on Dec 10, 2023 12:47:10 GMT -8
I'm currently rebuilding a 1950 Spartan Spartanette Tandem, and another 1950 one with my friend Art. I own a 1948 Spartan and I have repaired riveted skins on several Spartans to date.
I would not recommend changing your key lock, and door latching system to anything but original stock. They are repairable.
Without a photo I do not know exactly what lock assembly you have on your trailer. The early Spartanette's used a Bargman latch assembly. The reproduction key tumbler is available from XXX XXXXX Ford Parts and is a 1938-41? Ford part. If you order the repo parts for both doors they can supply "keyed alike" tumblers an no additional cost. The Cast lock housing will require some enlargement which can be easily done with a step bit and finished with a round file. I just changed out the tumblers on four Spartanette doors, all work fine.
In general Lock Smith's used to really know their trade, but no longer care to do much more than want to sell you a reprogramed key fob for your modern computer-controlled car/truck. 35 years ago, I had the choice of three or four true Lock Smiths within a short drive from my home. They are all retired or closed today. I know of only one true "old school" Lock Smith in all of Orange County, CA. They are located in Garden Grove, CA. They are located on Garden Grove Blvd and are called XXXX Bros. (Think of a short mountain). They have been in the trade for a very long time, and do everything from pad locks to bank vaults. They are very reasonably priced for the service they provide. They will have the correct key blanks (Early Ford Car) and the ability to cut duplicates. I'd bet you have a True Old School Lock Smith in Austin. Hint, it's not your local hardware store or big box store.
Good luck with your Spartan.
John Palmer
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cedarbreak
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Post by cedarbreak on Dec 10, 2023 17:02:33 GMT -8
Thank you so much!! I will give this a try and see if I can get a key!!! We originally had the back door lock moved to the front because there was no key for the front lock. Thank you so much for the information I really appreciate it!!
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ruderunner
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Post by ruderunner on Dec 15, 2023 5:32:39 GMT -8
I've run into a similar situation with vintage car keys. Until I found a hardware store that still had blanks for my various tumblers. Many are available online as well but identifying the blanks can be tricky.
A little time with a good file and you can cut your own keys.
A little more effort but rekeying the whole assembly is doable too.
Post pictures of your key, we may be able to identify the blank and get this started.
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