Get a key for the lock

[mcgill]

HELLO


TO ALL I HAVE A 87 BASS BOAT GOT IT ON LINE. THERE WAS NO KEY TO ANY OF THE COMPARTMENTS. THE FORMER OWNER HAS NO KEY ,,,,THE BUILDER OF THE BOAT ARE NO LONGER ON THE MAP. QERSTION HOW CAN I GET A KEY FOR THE LOCK

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Locksmith or if its just the ignition switch, a new ignition switch.

 

[Brewman61]

Re: Get a key for the lock

If you feel really adventerous, google lock picking. Most of these types of locks can be easily opened once you know how they work. Once the compartments are open, you can remove those locks and reinstall similar ones. Cheap locks are surprisingly easy to open without keys.
Most locks of this type are cheap.
Or you can do as already suggested- have a locksmith make new keys for you.

As an aside, I've save at least one locksmith trip out when I locked myself out of my house. I just opened the lock without the keys. Kinda fun.

 

[1fishbone]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Some of those locks are replaceable. Like a file or tool cabinet lock.
Take the lock out, just the lock and take it to the home improvement store.
If they don't have one take the lock to locksmith, most are mobile, some still have a store.
Taking it to them saves the house call.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Get a key for the lock

You may be hard-pressed to find a lock at the home center that will stand up to the marine environment. Fortunately, proper hardware is available right here on iboats.

 

[1fishbone]

Re: Get a key for the lock

You may be hard-pressed to find a lock at the home center that will stand up to the marine environment. Fortunately, proper hardware is available right here on iboats.

I have got to remember that!

 

[shrew]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Some of those locks are replaceable. Like a file or tool cabinet lock.
Take the lock out, just the lock and take it to the home improvement store.
If they don't have one take the lock to locksmith, most are mobile, some still have a store.
Taking it to them saves the house call.

It's going to be tricky to simply take the lock out and replace it if the locker hatch is locked in the closed position, which is what I think the OP is alluding to. It doesn't sound like the issue is how to replace the locks, but rather how to get the locks open without the original key. I may be overlooking something here.

If the locks are locked closed, you could certainly call a locksmith. You could try to pick the locks, but without the right hook and rake it will be tricky, and a time consumming learning curve. A basic 14 pc. lockpick set can be had for between $20-$40. You could also try to drill the locks out and then replace them.....unless they're stainless steel, which would be a real PITA. I wouldn't bother trying to drill them if they're SS.

 

[scipper77]

Re: Get a key for the lock

A friend of mine bought a lock pick kit for goofs (he's a doctor so I doubt he's also a criminal). He showed me how to use it and it took me 5 minutes to pick one of the locks in his house.

I personally would get the lock pick kit and try it just for the fun of it. Maybe hit the locks with some sort of penetrating oil or lube in advance in case they are stuck after tears of non use.

Another option that several car thieves have shown to work is to jam a screwdriver in there and force the lock destroying it in the process. I can't guarantee this method but I have seen it done on the trunk of an (my) '85 olds.

 

[ziggy]

Re: Get a key for the lock

any numbers on the face of the lock? if so, that'd be the key code number, keys can be made from this number w/o the lock. sometime, not often though. the code can be found on the cam of the lock. but the cabnet needs to be open to see the number.

some of these kind of locks can be pried open. the cam bends enough to allow entry. ya gotta use judgment though so as not to break anything.

pick the lock with conventional lock picks.

pick the lock with the wrong key. there are not to many combos for these types of locks (typical is a couple hundred + or -), most of them have pretty loose tolerance and will allow the wrong key (close to the proper key but wrong) to operate. maybe only once, but all ya need is once to get one open. then make a key for it at the local lockshop. this can be real beneficial if all locks are keyed alike. fit one, it fits them all. if they are keyed different they all have to be opened and removed to take them to the lockshop.

a locksmith can make a key with it locked for most locks of this type. it's called impressioning. starts with a blank key and is filed down to fit the lock in question. a locksmith knows how this is done.

be careful if ya decide to destroy the lock. many small, cheap, cam type locks have a special cam on them suited only for the application that they're applied to. if ya destroy it. keep the parts. they may be very useful for the replacement lock. also the cam sometimes is permanently installed on the lock. these locks are not designed for service. impressioning or code cutting or reading the tumblers is the only way a key can be made for these locks.

 

[DuckHunterJon]

Re: Get a key for the lock

I think everyone has covered your options. I'll just add another vote for trying to pick them. It really isn't that hard, and once you get the hang of it, you'll find yourself trying different locks for fun. Depending on the style lock, I've had good success with nothing more than a bent paperclip and a small screwdriver.

Once picked, you should be able to replace the core or the entire lock, but as said before, you have to get it unlocked first. One caution, after you spend 30 - 45 minutes picking it, put a block of wood in the way so it won't close on you and force you to pick it again - been there, done that!

 

[lncoop]

Re: Get a key for the lock

I assume you can't get to the hinge screws.

 

[Brewman61]

Re: Get a key for the lock

I assume you can't get to the hinge screws.

I certainly hope he can't! That would be one heckuva design flaw. On the other hand, I've seen some really el-cheapo things in many boats.

You don't have to invest in lock picking tools, unless you want to. If these are the kind of lock that you turn 90 degress to move the tang out of the slot, they're usually wafer locks, which are even easier to pick then the standard pin/tumbler locks.

I opened this style of lock on my desk at work with a couple paper clips.

there are numerous articles out there on how to construct lock picks out of stuff you probably already own.

 

[riverkeg]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Like a previous poster said, write down the code on the lock. It should be adjacent to the key slot. Take that number to a locksmith and tell him what it's for. Take a picture of the lock with you if you have a digital camera. If he's any good, he'll know exactly what do do. I had the same problem on a 99 bass boat I had. 10 minutes and $8 later, I had 2 matching keys. Also, if you know someone with an older camper, try their door keys.

 

[Dutch552]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Use a hole saw and a drill to drill out around the lock cylinder. Usually just cheap injection molded plastic and then replace the entire assembly with a Perko/similar locking hatch latch.

 

[Jeep Man]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Assuming all the locks are keyed the same, remove either one of them and take it to a locksmith. He can cut a new key to match the cylinder.

 

[NYBo]

Re: Get a key for the lock

Heck, I can usually pick these kind of locks with the nail file on my nail clipper.