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no key - remove ignition cylinder?

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Patrick_J View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Patrick_J Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Topic: no key - remove ignition cylinder?
    Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 9:29pm
Hi, I have no key for my recently obtained 1965 Ambassador. Can anyone give quick tips on how to remove the cylinder so I can get it keyed?

Thanks!

Patrick
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myrambler View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote myrambler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:28pm
My experience is you need the key to change the cylinder, however a good locksmith should be able to pick the lock/ignition switch to remove the cylinder and then cut a key and install the correct pins. 
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote amxdreamer Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:31pm
Aren't the door cylinders the same as the ignition? Might be easier to get a door cylinder to a locksmith instead of messing with the column.
Tony
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1970 AMX
1972 Badassador
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Patrick_J View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Patrick_J Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:40pm
Great thought.. Locksmith worried door could be different so suggested ignition cylinder. I just can't figure out how it's attached. I can partially get to it by removing the ash tray...
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote myrambler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:41pm
Hmmm
On my American the ignition switch is mounted in the dash, easy to remove by holding the back of the switch and pushing it forward and turning the bezel in the dash, only held in place by a spring and a couple of tabs on the switch. Not sure where the switch is mounted on a 65 Ambassador. No mater what you need to remove the cylinder and switch to rekey it IMHO.
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myrambler View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote myrambler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:44pm
On my car the door cylinders are keyed the same as the ignition key, however the trunk key is a different shape key and a different cut.
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote myrambler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:46pm
Not much room on the American to get your hand behind the dash to do this but its possible, just plan on some skin lost to the dash gremlins. 
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Patrick_J View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Patrick_J Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:48pm
Ok good to know door works!
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote myrambler Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/21/2018 at 11:53pm
There is a switch for sale on eBay that fits the 65-66 Rebel, Ambassador and Marlin. Look at it and you will see the pins and spring I mentioned, again push the switch forward or towards you while turning the bezel on the dash. The bezel is slotted much like a tail light bulb holder is 
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Patrick_J View Drop Down
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Post Options Post Options   Thanks (0) Thanks(0)   Quote Patrick_J Quote  Post ReplyReply Direct Link To This Post Posted: Sep/22/2018 at 12:01am
Great advice! Looking at the pic is super helpful! Will try it in the morning... Thanks!!
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