Which Key

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Brian D
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Which Key

Post by Brian D » Wed Aug 24, 2022 10:24 am

Trying to help out a new guy.
Probably any key may work, especially a 55, however he wants a matching key :D
No numbers on this key.
Anyone tell what number this maybe!
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TXGOAT2
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Re: Which Key

Post by TXGOAT2 » Wed Aug 24, 2022 10:29 am

The later style switches have the key number stamped in the lock cylinder beside the key opening. The numbers are small.

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RajoRacer
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Re: Which Key

Post by RajoRacer » Wed Aug 24, 2022 10:32 am

Does the switch plate have "Ford" in script under the headlight lever ? If not, it's most likely an aftermarket & likely a # 55 key if not stamped on the cylinder.

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George Mills
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Re: Which Key

Post by George Mills » Wed Aug 24, 2022 11:06 am

Really hard to tell without the other keys to compare. (my keyboard is at the winter house)

Ford only had 4 tumbler notch (teeth) combos, the rest was done with the groove locations on the blade.

Here is a picture of a keyboard with a set of keys...maybe you can zoom up and see????
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TRDxB2
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Re: Which Key

Post by TRDxB2 » Wed Aug 24, 2022 11:49 am

Looks like MAc's/Ecklers took the time to photo ever key individually. #55 guesses appear to be correct
https://www.macsautoparts.com/catalogse ... %20t%20key
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Norman Kling
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Re: Which Key

Post by Norman Kling » Wed Aug 24, 2022 1:12 pm

Even the ones you buy aftermarket do not always work. I have a key for my car and it happens that a friend has a car with the same key. He got one at either a swap meet or on line with the same number, but it didn't work. Finally found one that worked. The aftermarket keys are not always ground exactly right.
Norm

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Re: Which Key

Post by Mark Gregush » Wed Aug 24, 2022 2:11 pm

Had a customer's car with replacement 55 tumbler and key. If you inserted the key all the way it would not work, if left about 1/8" out it was fine.
I know the voices aren't real but damn they have some good ideas! :shock:

1925 Cut down pickup
1948 Ford F2 pickup

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Brian D
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Re: Which Key

Post by Brian D » Wed Aug 24, 2022 3:13 pm

Sure looks like 55 as many said.
I'll get a 55 and try!.
Thank you all,
Brian :)
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Life is Good, be nice.

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Re: Which Key

Post by TRDxB2 » Wed Aug 24, 2022 3:31 pm

If a new key doesn't fit properly in a 100 year old pot metal lock - could it be the lock and not the key? :?
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Re: Which Key

Post by RajoRacer » Wed Aug 24, 2022 4:04 pm

When you get a look at the switch assembly, let us know if it's Ford script under the light handle, please. Maybe even post a photo.

Some years ago, some of the repro black switch plate assemblies all used a #55 key and it could be removed in ALL positions !

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Ed Fuller
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Re: Which Key

Post by Ed Fuller » Wed Aug 24, 2022 4:44 pm

If there is no number or Ford script on the key or the ignition switch, then that key is for the reproduction ignition switches.

A #55 key may or may not work. The tooth profile is similar to a #55 but there are some distinct differences. It all depends on how worn out the cylinder and the key are.

Brian, I sent you an email through the forum. I can help you out with the key.


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Re: Which Key

Post by J1MGOLDEN » Fri Aug 26, 2022 7:28 pm

The after marked switch keys and cylinders are cut like a #55 Ford key, but that groove is centered and not offset like the #55 Ford key, so they do not interchange.


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Re: Which Key

Post by Original Smith » Sun Aug 28, 2022 6:04 pm

I have a NORS C.D. switch assembly, and it is exactly the same as the Ford issue, except there is no script under the headlight switch lever. Also, the back of the assembly is bare metal.

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