I picked up a 59 Edsel project.  The keys were lost 30+ years ago.  I know the correct way to remove the ignition lock cylinder is to turn it to a specific point using the key and push the release button.

Is there a way to remove the cylinder without the key and without breaking the cylinder or the switch so I can reuse them?

I know I can get a replacement ignition switch, cylinder and keys inexpensively but was hoping I could get an original key made by a locksmith so I don't have to replace the door locks too.  Is there a key code on the cylinder itself?

John

There is no marking to identify the lock barrel, but a locksmith will have no trouble cutting a key for it once you get the barrel out.

I don't know of any way of getting the barrel out without turning the lock. I have managed to get the barrels to turn by using any original key and working it in and out to get the tumblers to line up and allow the barrel to turn. I am sure that any locksmith worth his salt could get the barrel out without a key once you have the complete ignition switch out.

Regards

Rick - West Australia
Do Y Blocks Downunder run upside down? Gravity Sucks!!

That was my next step - just to take the whole switch to a locksmith.  The switch was very easy to remove - reach behind the dash, push the switch toward the dash, turn the bezel by hand a little to unhook and remove it and pull the switch below the dash where you can remove the wires.  Really only took a minute or so.

I also have the glove box lock out so maybe I can get both keys made.  Hope it's not too expensive.

John

jrappl,

How handy are you??  I've taken them apart myself and both made new keys and/or made new tumblers to fit existing keys: You can very carefully pry the steel tumbler back-plate off and get at the individual tumblers.  Then you use a key blank and triangle-file each location until that tumbler just lets the cylinder turn, and go on to the next one.  Tumblers can be easily made by using brazing rod (brass) of the proper diameter (3/32" comes to mind - maybe 5/32" - don't remember), cutting a 1" piece and chucking it into a hand drill, running it at high speed and using a file to "cone" the tip while spinning (match a factory tumler for angle and fit of cone).  Then cut to desired length, finish the backside flat, and voila - you have a new tumbler.

Hope this can help you or others.

Regards,   JLB

55 Ford Crown Victoria Steel Top

Before you spend money getting a locksmith to key all the locks, I would suggest you just buy a complete new set from, concours parts, macs autos or Dennis carpenter. There is nothing to say that the door locks and the ignition locks are identical. I would be surprized if they are, depending on how much work the car has done. I think a full set including the trunk should be about $130 from memory.

The ignition and doors should be the same and the glove box and trunk should also be the same. It is possible to buy new trunk locks but you will need to get a locksmith to key the glovebox to the same as the trunk. Glovebox locks are not reproduced.

regards

Rick - West Australia
Do Y Blocks Downunder run upside down? Gravity Sucks!!

Sure it is an option to buy all new cylinders and keys but I'm getting pricing around $200.  I'm aware that the other locks may have been changed but the car has been sitting since 1971 and everything else looks original.

I might try making a key myself.  It's just one more job to add to the list including the total engine rebuild, replacing the fuel system, rebuilding the starter and generator, steering, suspension, brakes, interior and body work and paint, etc... but it's all fun!

At least the keys can wait as it's easy enough to hotwire...

John

Isn't the door lock the same just take the door lock out and have a key made for it.

Floyd

Joblot.com in New York sells a door- ignition set for around $65.00 and likely have a replacement switch to go with it.The trunk is the same as the glovebox.The door and ignition are the same provided no one has changed the ignition one as was done to mine.Worth a try first though.

  

I checked joblot but didn't see the ignition/door lock for a 59.  They did have it for a 58 but the door locks are different.

John

Dennis Carpenter lists ignition barrel for an Edsel and uses the same part number as a 55 Ford. He lists a boot lock for the Edsel which seems specific for the Edsel, but did not see a listing for door locks.

Regards

Rick - West Australia
Do Y Blocks Downunder run upside down? Gravity Sucks!!