Auto Lockout Tool Overview

by Tom Gillespie
Created: May 1, 2005

No longer will one tool fit almost all. Rigid lock pawls, protected linkage rods, armored cables and side-impact airbags mounted into the door cavity have complicated the tools and techniques required for the “simple car opening.”

People have been locking themselves out of homes, offices, vehicles, etc. for many years. The auto lockouts have probably been the most profitable for locksmiths, based on sheer numbers. In fact, some locksmiths only do car openings. To open locked cars, homes and businesses, manufacturers have been...

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For more information, contact High Tech Tools, 1628 NW 28th Street, Miami, FL 33142. Telephone: (800) 323-8324. Fax: (305) 635-1015. Web Site: www.hightechtools.com.

HPC

Since starting out in 1956 as a small locksmith shop on Chicago?s north side, HPC has become a recognized manufacturer in the locksmith industry. It is widely believed that HPC was the original inventor and producer of the Slim Jim. In fact, they hold the trademark to that product name.

In recent years, HPC has introduced a variety of specialty lockout tools and accessories. They were the first tool company to offer the Air Wedge. This unique inflatable wedge revolutionized the way we open locked cars. The design allows an un-inflated rubber square to slip between the doorframe and auto body. By pumping a small bulb repeatedly, you ease the frame out and create an opening for a bypass tool to be inserted.

In addition to the standard flat and wire rod lockout tools, HPC offers a variety of multi-piece tools comprised of a hollow body with a movable mechanism inside. The design allows for the manipulation of a linkage rod, lock button or inside handle almost like you were reaching inside with your hand. The Vertical Clutch, Horizontal Clutch, Twin Hooks, Super Snare, Thru Car Clutch and Fishing Pole all utilize the tool-within-a-tool design. The end result is the ability to twist, turn, grab and hook almost any lock component like you would if you could reach it with your bare hand.

A variety of inspection lights, wedges, individual tools and kits are available. The Car Opening Authority is available in book form or on an interactive CD. For more information, contact HPC Tools, 3999 North 25th Street, Schiller Park, IL 60176. Telephone: (847) 671-6280. Fax: (847) 671-6343. Web Site: www.hpcworld.com.

Lockmasters/Tech-Train

Steve Young started Tech-Train Productions in 1987. Beginning with a basic set of lockout tools and single videotape on opening the 1988 models, the company grew quickly. In 2002, Lockmasters Inc acquired Tech-Train.

Steve has long been recognized in the industry as a wealth of information on automotive locks and locking systems. He has been all over the country for the better part of the last two decades presenting training seminars for thousands of locksmiths. He is still actively developing new lockout techniques and teaching his lockout and other automotive skills through the Lockmasters Pure Auto automotive educational seminars.

In the last 18 years, the Tech-Train tool set has grown from seven to 20 tools. Tech-Train strives to keep the number of tools to a minimum by using double-ended and multi-purpose tools. A Video Manual is available, showing the proper operation of each tool, including the use of the lockout manuals. An impressive selection of other lockout information is available in multiple formats.

Tech-Train offers a wide variety of lockout tools and automotive accessories including the Jiffy Jack tool, high-intensity inspection lights and unique doorframe wedges.

For more information, contact Tech-Train tools at Lockmasters Inc., 5085 Danville Road, Nicholasville, KY 40356. Telephone: (800) 654-0637. Fax: (859) 885-7093. Web Site: www.lockmasters.com.

PRO-LOK

Originating on a folding table in the back room of a small Southern California lock shop in 1988, PRO-LOK was the inspiration of Adam and Lori Weinraub. In 1991, Adam sold the lock shop and devoted full time to PRO-LOK.

In addition to a range of locksmith products, PRO-LOK offers a wide variety of auto lockout tools and equipment. An ample selection of lockout tool kits is supplemented by the availability of individual tools, inflatable wedges, solid wedges, high-intensity inspection lights and carrying and tool storage cases. Detailed lockout information is available in The Best Damn Car Opening Manual Period. The manual is updated with an annual review of new and redesigned models. All photos are in full color, a unique feature in the lockout tool industry.