I had two key blanks that Stephen posted and the locksmith wouldn't cut them (thanks!) because they were not going to work. They were a little bit different.

Your locksmith was afraid of those blanks because of the parrallel center grooves and probably couldn't get them to line up with the original because of it's offset center grooves. Believe me, it can be done if you have the right kind of key cutting machine. I work at a hardware store and we have two machines. An automatic one and a manual one. The manual machine actually works better for these older keys and if the locksmith knows what he's doing it can be done. I've done it and the keys do work and I'm no locksmith. Just a hackin' hardware store key cutter and, believe me, there's a big difference.

Your locksmith was afraid of those blanks because of the parrallel center grooves and probably couldn't get them to line up with the original because of it's offset center grooves. Believe me, it can be done if you have the right kind of key cutting machine. I work at a hardware store and we have two machines. An automatic one and a manual one. The manual machine actually works better for these older keys and if the locksmith knows what he's doing it can be done. I've done it and the keys do work and I'm no locksmith. Just a hackin' hardware store key cutter and, believe me, there's a big difference.

I know what you mean, I worked at a hardware store part-time till 6 months ago, and you have to put some care into it.

I go to the Nissan dealer I have to order blanks? I asked those jerks if they had the Nissan keys, and they said no. I just might drive my Z through the front window of the dealership for that.

Hi Guys,

While this is an interesting thread, I would like to point out what was mentioned in the other thread.

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showpost.php?p=163951&postcount=34

Take caution posting pictures of your actual working keys. They can be used to duplicate a key by anyone with the desire and possibly steal your car.

FWIW,

Chris A.

Believe me, it can be done if you have the right kind of key cutting machine.

My neighbor gave me this old Yale key cutter after I helped him move. Now all I need are some key blanks and a verrrrrrry steady hand! :laugh:

I'd replace that cutting blade first and experiment with something other than double side car keys before I'd trust it.

Hi Guys,

While this is an interesting thread, I would like to point out what was mentioned in the other thread.

http://www.classiczcars.com/forums/showpost.php?p=163951&postcount=34

Take caution posting pictures of your actual working keys. They can be used to duplicate a key by anyone with the desire and possibly steal your car.

FWIW,

Chris A.

Heck, if someone wants to steal a Z, the key is going to be the least of his worries. It would take fifty times longer to make the key than rig the wiring. I can start my car without the key in less than 30 seconds and it would take me about 10 seconds to get in it. Which is why, I, like many others, install and dream up little stalling and delaying devices and tactics that get activated, as necessary, when we park.

This Series 1 lock and key set on eBay just ended with a final bid of $405.00.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/DATSUN-1970-240Z-NEW-LOCK-SET_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQcategoryZ140706QQihZ011QQitemZ320073593677QQrdZ1

The winning bidder got the door, hatch, and glove box locks, along with 2 keys. It wasn't a complete lock set, as there was no ignition switch.

So......would the keys alone have reached that price or was it the combination of keys & locks?

Well if you're a purist, I guess it's worth it. Why can't locks be taken apart and overhauled?

I would guess it was the combination of all the parts, though for the life of me, I don't know why someone wouldn't just go and have their tumblers fiddled with (for lack of a better word). Sure, having all your locks redone would cost, but it should be cheaper than 400 bucks.