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Tue Aug 26, 2008 9:50 pm

I just acquired a 1960 Ragtop without a key for the ignition/door lock. Suggestions on how to get a key made? Someone told me there is a code/number under the front hood by the ignition switch which can be used to make a key. No such luck in finding this info. Also, does anyone have the name of a person that can make the key from this information.

Tue Aug 26, 2008 10:08 pm

any locksmith can make a key from the code on the door lock, providing the key and door are the same.

Wed Aug 27, 2008 12:19 am

The key code isn't "by" the ignition switch, it is stamped right ON the ignition switch. Take the switch out and look for a code starting with "SE" followed by 1, 2 or 3 digits.

Wed Aug 27, 2008 5:27 am

Try this guy, http://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=86513

Wed Aug 27, 2008 2:10 pm

Make sure the codes on your door handle and ignition are the same. If not, you may need to get two different keys. See this thread for pics of where the codes are located. If they are the same, you may be able to find a local place that can cut you a key. If not, Gabriel can cut you a key. Also, if your codes don't match, Gabriel can either rekey your door cylinder, or just sell you another door cylinder to match your ignition so you only need one key.

Wed Aug 27, 2008 2:32 pm

codeMechanic wrote: any locksmith can make a key from the code on the door lock, providing the key and door are the same.

Yeah right. :roll: The locksmith would have to have the VW key code book to cut a new key. Finding locksmiths that still use the old school key cutting machine is starting to get more difficult.

Most locksmiths these days can't even cut a key blank even if they had a key to copy. Modern day key cutting machines use a key cartridge for the blank. And no one produces cartidges specifically for a vintage VW key blank.

Wed Aug 27, 2008 2:34 pm

1960 also used a 1yr key blank. If you're going for originality or authenticity, pray you have a SE code.

Wed Aug 27, 2008 2:48 pm

Yep. SE key is a 1-year only anamoly for 1960 Bugs. You can easily check if you have the correct door drivers side handle too. On a true 1960 handle, the key slot will be vertical (up & down). 1961-later Bugs the key slot was horizontal (Left to Right)

Wed Aug 27, 2008 8:04 pm

Eric--Thanks for the thread link. After using some very fine steel wool, was able to see the code which starts with SE. Also, the door lock opening is vertical. I have not taken the handle off, hopefully, it was not changed. Thanks to all for your advise.

Wed Aug 27, 2008 10:49 pm

cubriver wrote: After using some very fine steel wool, was able to see the code which starts with SE. Also, the door lock opening is vertical. I have not taken the handle off, hopefully, it was not changed. Thanks to all for your advise.

Sounds like you still have the og handles & locks

Wed Aug 27, 2008 11:00 pm

RareAir wrote:
Yeah right. :roll: The locksmith would have to have the VW key code book to cut a new key.
My local locksmith can cut the keys from the code. It's available to them on disc.

Thu Aug 28, 2008 10:11 am

Since we're on the subject of correct key coding.... Does 66 share the same K key code profile as 67?

Thu Aug 28, 2008 11:47 am

No, It is SU Profile

Thu Aug 28, 2008 10:48 pm

Euro 67 wrote: No, It is SU Profile Or SV, or SC.

Wed Oct 08, 2008 9:50 am

My 58 has one key that fits the ignition and deck lid handle, but not the door? I assume the door handle has been changed out, as the ignition switch has the SG 1** code on it making me believe its the original one? I would like to get the door handles re-keyed to match.