Locks - Re-Keying to Maintain One-Key Operation

89vw08

GROUP

57

NUMBER

89-01

September 30,1989

MODEL(S):

All Models all years
SUBJECT:

Re-keying locks to maintain one-key operation



Re-keying locks

Lock cylinders cannot be ordered by specified key numbers. On most cars one-key convenience can be retained by changing the appropriate lock tumblers to match the key that is going to be used.

Note

Tumblers in the ignition lock cannot be changed.

On certain older vehicles, the glove box key is different than the ignition key. A separate kit is available from the Parts Department to change this lock.



Key code, locating

The key code is a two-letter, four-digit number that represents the contour of the key.

^ The key code may be found on:
^ the plastic plate that comes with the original set of keys
^ recorded by owner or selling dealer in vehicle owners manual
^ door handle
^ ignition lock
^ trunk lock
Lock cylinder tumblers, changing

^ select correct tumbler repair kit
^ bags are marked by numbers 1-2-3-4 to identify the tumblers
^ insert lock's original key into cylinder lock
^ carefully remove lock cylinder
^ do not damage O-ring
^ place thumb and forefinger over tumblers to hold them in place
^ pull out key
^ if tumblers are peened in place, carefully remove peened metal with suitable tool until lock tumblers can be removed
^ place lock cylinder on clean flat surface
^ release the cylinder and tumblers slowly
^ tumblers will come out as you let go


CAUTION

Do not lose any springs or tumblers.

^ remove all tumblers and springs from cylinder

Selecting tumblers


CAUTION

VW Key Code Service Catalog is strictly confidential.

^ look up key code of ignition lock in Key Code Service Catalog
^ catalog will tell you what tumblers to use and the sequence they are to be inserted into lock cylinder



Example:

Key code AH 9129

The code in catalog is listed in following sequence:

3-1-3-2-3-1-3

^ add 1 to the first and third tumbler size to initially make the lock work. In example use tumbler sizes in this order:

4-3-4-1 -3-4-1

3 1 3 2 3 1 3 = tumbler arrangement

1 1 according to code list
+ 4 1 4 2 3 1 3 = tumbler arrangement of converted lock cylinder


CAUTION

Part numbers are for reference only. Always consult with the parts department for the latest information.


Note

Lubricate the tumblers and springs with G 000 400 grease or equivalent as they are inserted into the lock cylinder.

^ reading key code numbers from left to right, insert tumblers in the lock cylinder housing starting at the key slot



Note

When working with a lock cylinder with only 5 tumblers, use tumbler number sequence minus the first two tumblers.

Example:

4 1 4 2 3 1 3 = code from catalog

- - 4 2 3 1 3 = are the tumblers to be used