Steel keys vs brass keys?

[bob tilton]

Any experience with locksmiths refusing to cut steel key blanks? Local shop did not want to cut my steel key blank, reproduction SWB key with "Porsche" engraved, and warned me other shops may refuse as well because it would ruin their blade and not good for ignition.

[tfiv]

His argument about the wear on the mechanism makes some sense though.

[csbush]

My local locksmith had no problem doing this-- although the dealer would not do it for me using that same lame excuse.

There are folks out there who will do it, so I just suggest finding another locksmith.

[72 S Trga]

I had heard about this a while back.

I believe that most domestic keys are brass or a similar soft metal while the locks are a harder material such as steel. That way, the wear occurs on the easily replaceable key.

The German carmakers, however, use keys and locks that are made of steel, I believe. I don't know the reason behind it.

[JohnT]

Tony has been dealing with 356 key issues for some time. He is expert on 356, 912, and therefore I suspect early 911 lock issues. This is the only place I'd consider were I have an ignition key or switch problem (and frequently one follows the other).

Here's his web site. http://www.lockandkeyid.com/

good luck Bob

johnt

[kenikh]

Tony has been dealing with 356 key issues for some time. He is expert on 356, 912, and therefore I suspect early 911 lock issues. This is the only place I'd consider were I have an ignition key or switch problem (and frequently one follows the other).

Here's his web site. http://www.lockandkeyid.com/

good luck Bob

johnt

Sounds like the right man to rekey my car! I'll be dropping my doors and glovebox locks in a box and sending them to him. Good pointer!

[John Straub]

I have used Tony several times with good luck.

John

[bob tilton]

My first choice locksmith cut the steel blank for $10. Yesterday's locksmith was my second choice but closer to work and venture out to during lunch.

Questions:
Are the LWB key blanks steel or brass?
Are the original SWB keys steel or brass?
If the originals were brass, why would they opt to repro them in steel?

[John Straub]

Bob,

My original '65 key is steel and it looks like it was nickel plated.

John

[dvkk]

My local locksmith doesn't shy away from steel keys. I asked what the cutting wheels are made from, and he said carbide. If your locksmith has carbide cutting wheels, there is no steel on the planet that can't be cut by this. The mild steel an original key is made from is to a carbide wheel what a steel knife is to butter.
However, if they are using a High Speed Steel cutting wheel, it can cut the mild steel key, but it won't last near as long as if cutting brass exclusively.