Key snapped off in torq lock

[themutiny]

Hi

The 'ignition' key on my Torq has snappped off in the barrel. I have managed to turn it off with some pliers, but so far my attempts to extract the remnants of the key (albeit only with tweezers/pliers) have proved unsuccessful. Does anyone have any advice on how to extract, eg a suitable tool, or how to remove the barrel etc. Any advice gratefully received

Thanks

Nick

 

[prState]

Even though I haven't done this myself, I figured it was pretty common

removing broken key from lock - Google Search

Something there will probably work for you. (hopefully)

 

[flecc]

This often happens. Once it's sorted, and if you have the older key with a fairly large head, it's best to hacksaw off the top half so that heels don't catch it.
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[themutiny]

I've tried most of the DIY solutions proferred by google, but I don't have a dental pick. Seems to me it would be very simple if you had the right tool.

Tried a local locksmith, the resultant conversation was like the two Ronnies fork handles sketch.

I daresay I could call out an auto-locksmith, but that seesm like overkill and will probably be very expensive.

I'm wondering if I should just use a screwdriver since the barrel turns ok and I rarely leave the bike (battery) unattended anyway. The other issue is that I'm down to one key now. Are they easily cut locally or would I have to source from Ezee?

 

[flecc]

I'm fairly sure you'd need to source one from Cyclepoint.

However, there's nothing wrong with using a screwdriver and you could make up a convenient pocket "key" to do that job. It's very unlikely any thief would twig the situation at the usual glance.

I've been careless enough to break the keys from both my eZee models previously, but in both cases was able to get the key out after some effort. The important thing is to get the slot position to a relaxed point where there's no lateral pressure on the broken key sides, making it easier for the shaft to slide out.
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[themutiny]

MAnaged to get it out in the end using two jewellers screwdrivers and a nail clipper. My local friendly key cutters eventually found a similar blank. They even said to me "take it home and try it, and if it works, come back and pay for it" can you believe that, restores your faith in human nature..

only downside is that this blank is longer than the original so will be even more prone to being twisted/broken. Off to swap front wheels now for tomorrow's Capital to coast ride.

 

[flecc]

I thought you'd manage in the end, well done. ASAP cut down the handle part of the key as I suggested above though, I've done that on both mine and have never snagged them since.
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[themutiny]

thanks Flecc - will do. The cut key didn't work. It doesn't have the shaved shoulder (don't know a better way to convey what I mean) so it doesn't get far enough into the barrel to work. Oh well, e-mail to Cyclepoint..

 

[flecc]

Hopefully they'll have a blank, since they come in different patterns. My two can just about substitute for each other with a bit of wiggling, but that may just be luck.
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