Twenty Years Ago
High Security was the feature of the month. Jerry Levine reported on the Schlage Primus high security locking system. Interactive Mul-T-Lock key and cylinder designs were the subject of another article. Tom Thill explained the various steps required for fitting keys to a Volvo equipped with sidewinder locks. Dale Padjen provided an interesting tour of the Chicago Lock factory which was then located in Pleasant Prairie, WI. Jerry Levine found good and bad news concerning lock systems being introduced on 1997 domestic car models. High Tech Tools explained their system for opening a Toyota RAV 4 vehicle. Hugh Curry tested M series lock cylinders, an Ilco version of Medeco locks but without a locking sidebar feature. Jerome Andrews outlined the features of Kaba Peaks IC core lock cylinders. Mas-Hamilton introduced readers to their new Auditcon electronic safe lock. Jerome Andrews wrote a very sobering essay on approaching changes in the security marketplace. Michael Ball, Continental Products, predicted a healthy growth in the access control market. David Parrott explained how to use tryout keys for Ford 8-cut key fitting. Milt Wolferseder serviced an ancient Mosler safe. Joey Dalessio suggested working on your business instead of in your business.
Ten Years Ago
Jerry Levine suggested door servicing or complete door replacement as a new vertical market for locksmiths. Rod Oden explained the meaning of terms listed on fire door labels. Tom Gillespie outlined various types of butt hinges. An installation article showed how to install Securitron maglocks in a double door opening. Tim O'Leary introduced readers to electrified hinges. Tim O'Leary also described some newly introduced electronic items for access control. Pictures from the 2006 ALOA convention in Las Vegas brought back good memories. Locksmith Mike Foty tackled the job of opening an obscure McClintock safe cabinet. Jerry Levine explained how to unlock a Chrysler Pacifica. Tiny explored the problems involved with GM foreign-made plastic ignition cylinders. Jerry Levine discussed both the second generation TKO tool by Ilco plus a set of instructional DVDs by Lockmasters on how to program transponder keys.
Measuring Depths & Spaces
New keys for RV and tool box locks are appearing with regularity. Most of these keys are double-sided and aftermarket key blank makers often have no exact replacements. When one of these keys is worn, duplication is even more of a problem even if you have a key blank that fits into the cylinder.
If the double-sided key has the same cuts on both sides, then measuring depths is not difficult. Start with a good set of calipers which have a .001" scale. All manufacturers today use MM dimensioning.
First, measure the full width of the key blank (A). Then measure across from one cut valley to the valley on the opposite side (B). The formula C=(A+B)/2 provides the approximate cut depth for one side of the key (C).
Multiply (C) by 25.4. The answer will now be in MM (D). Round off (D) to one digit past the decimal point. (Example 5.39 becomes 5.4). Divide the (D) by 25.4 and you will have an exact depth of cut (C) for that space.
Measure each space and follow the same formula to obtain each cut depth. Then use the same formula system and measure spacing to complete the key measurements your key measurements.
