I bought this 1968 Chrysler 2dr and have no keys... Ignition replacement help needed!

Harper

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hi guys
I recently bought a 1968 2dr chrysler Newport Custom. However the previous owner has lost the keys. How do I remove ignition to replace it.
Thanks
 
hi guys
I recently bought a 1968 2dr chrysler Newport Custom. However the previous owner has lost the keys. How do I remove ignition to replace it.
Thanks

Don't replace it. I just went through this same situation with a '68 300...

Remove the switch by tapping the circular bezel counterclockwise. There are "notches" cut into the bezel for this purpose. (I'm sure there is a correct tool, but I don't even know what/where you'd call/find it.) It won't take much effort. Once loose, spin it off by hand and push the switch through the dash. It will then hang down by the wires, which will pull off the back.

Take the assembly to a good locksmith, preferably one who has been around a while. They can cut you a new key which will (should) also fit the doors. I was quoted $100, which I knew was high. I got it done at another shop for $45, so obviously prices vary.

Same process can be done for the trunk, except obviously a bit different to remove. (my $45 quote was doing BOTH)
 
Bouchillon performance has the bezel removal tool, think they're about 17 bucks or so and that'll keep ya from messing up the bezel.
 
My locksmith just retired, he was always very reasonable price wise when I took him in a cylinder.
 
If you can hit the notched spot counterclockwise with a chunck of nylon or wood (say a thick paint stick) you should be able to avoid doing damage. Also could wrap a screwdriver in a thick rag.

Not discounting the idea of the correct tool, but if you're in a hurry, or don't plan to do it again.
 
You could also try a mobile locksmith to make keys to fit while still in the vehicle. We used one when we bought our house. We immediately changed all the house lock keys.

It was pretty reasonable
 
Not possible, Bryan. The cylinder has to come out.

? I don't think so if he knows what he's an old timer and knows what he's doing. Put key in turn, look at imprints, grind, try again, look at imprints, grind again.

Probably better and quicker to just take out.
 
? I don't think so if he knows what he's an old timer and knows what he's doing. Put key in turn, look at imprints, grind, try again, look at imprints, grind again.

Probably better and quicker to just take out.
That is so Old School that 90% of the so-called "Locksmiths" out there now couldn't do it. Where did you find your guy. And was he 75 years old?
 
That is so Old School that 90% of the so-called "Locksmiths" out there now couldn't do it. Where did you find your guy. And was he 75 years old?
I think my guy could do it but like I said he retired and he is about 70
 
That is so Old School that 90% of the so-called "Locksmiths" out there now couldn't do it. Where did you find your guy. And was he 75 years old?

I've had it done a couple times and above response is quite a bit different than ...

Not possible, Bryan. The cylinder has to come out.

Matter of fact the last guy that did it was about ~40 and that was about 6-7 years ago

:poke:
 
I've had it done a couple times and above response is quite a bit different than ...



Matter of fact the last guy that did it was about ~40 and that was about 6-7 years ago

:poke:
You got very lucky I think... Doesn't seem to be many good ones left from what I've seen.
 
You got very lucky I think... Doesn't seem to be many good ones left from what I've seen.

Then I've got lucky a few times.

How hard is it to call around to a a couple lock smiths and ask them if they know how to do that. I've watched it done a few times and it's not rocket science.

Explain the principal to anyone who's ever worked with a locksmiths files and tools (and is somehow unaware of the impressioning principal) and he can do it I'll bet if he's willing. Hell with a small bit of practice I think I could do it.
 
For all you guyz that are new to the hobby. That notched bezel around the ignition switch can be turned out with TWO 8"-10" flat blade screw driverz when you cross them before finding TWO opposing notchez in the bezel. Same thing for the headlite bezel, you just have to remove the lite switch knob first. Next installment will be an explanation az to where to find the release button for that. SHISH, Back under the porch again, and hell no I don't have all the answerz...quite, Jer
 
Get yourself the right tool for the job. Pickup a set like this and you will use it more times than you think. I know I have.

 
wow! I am blown away at all of the responses.
thanks guys
I did post pictures in my (garage) i guess you would call it. Here is a couple though,

IMG_4477.JPG
IMG_4476.JPG
IMG_4470.JPG
 
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wow! I am blown away at all of the responses.
thanks guys
I did post pictures in my (garage) i guess you would call it. Here is a couple though,

We're a helpful and friendly bunch really. Thanks for posting the pics

I made them full size for you .. check out the website tips forum :)
 
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