ignition key warn out! any suggestions????

[jokerbsl]

ok so i purchased a 1975 911-S from a friend with a blown up airbox.
yesterday i replaced the airbox and it purrrred like a kitten after timing it.
the key is original and extremely warn out today i go to fire it up and it unlocked the door just fine but would no longer turn the ignition.....
any suggestions????????????????????????

[ossiblue]

I had the same situation with my Landcrusier. Called a locksmith who specialized in cars and a tech came out, cleaned the lock and cut an new key using the old one as a template. It took a lot of trial and error as not only was the key worn, but the tumblers as well. Bottom line, it works now.

[jokerbsl]

Thanks i've definitely considered that as an option but the key is sooooooo warn out i just can't see them being able to make a good copy

[pete3799]

Put a rag under the switch and shoot some brakecleen in the key slot. Repeat several times,
then after it dries, give it a good dose of grafite key lube or similar.

[jokerbsl]

thanks!!! will try... ill let you know if it works!

[Joe Bob]

Did you try turning the key and wiggling the steering wheel?

[zippy_gg]

Originally Posted by Joe Bob

Did you try turning the key and wiggling the steering wheel?

+1 Your steering wheel may be locked and the key won't turn until you find the sweet spot by gently steering in either direction.
It is not as intuitive as "normal" cars where the key is right next to the steering column.

[ntrylvl]

When doing the above, make sure you put the key ALL THE WAY into the ignition before turning. If not, it can break off in the ignition when you try to turn it. This may seem obvious, but it's actually easy NOT to put it in all the way. Another suggestion (independent of whether or not the wheel is locked) is that if the key does not turn in the ignition, pull it out and flip it over then try again. Once you get the situation resolved, make sure you have 5-6 extra keys!! Good luck....

[Joe Bob]

Oh yeah, turn the key over 180 degrees if the above suggestion doesn't work....

[jokerbsl]

thanks sprayed some electronics cleaner in there then graphite powder worked like a charm!