I seem to have lost the key for my locking gas cap. Any thoughts on how to get it open? I'm guessing I'll have to drill it out and then replace it.

1979 XS400SG

I seem to have lost the key for my locking gas cap. Any thoughts on how to get it open? I'm guessing I'll have to drill it out and then replace it.

1979 XS400SG

hmm a lock smith could probably remove it without damaging the rest of the tank and other bits

hmm a lock smith could probably remove it without damaging the rest of the tank and other bits

That's not a bad idea. Take the tank off and take it to a locksmith.

I like it. No destruction, no buying new parts (I hope)...

Will pursue that idea and report back.

Thanks.

I'd try similar keys and wiggle around as the locks are old now and you may be able jump the tumblers.

press down the cap when doing it to lessen the friction on the hook!!

Is it this style cap in which case just put a slightly bent screw driver into the front and push the locking mechanism back to open the cap, you can then get another lock or replacement cap, if the lock has a number on it contact a yam dealer or a bike key specialist and they should be able to advide hwre to get a new key cut from the number

merv

Pick the lock, either with proper tools or improvised ones.

Bring it here and I'll do it for you.

Better yet - Take it to a dedicated auto locksmith (loads around).

They will open it undamaged and cut you a couple of replacement keys for a few bucks.

Pick the lock, either with proper tools or improvised ones.

Bring it here and I'll do it for you.

Better yet - Take it to a dedicated auto locksmith (loads around).

They will open it undamaged and cut you a couple of replacement keys for a few bucks.

Thanks for the offer Ttaskmaster but I think the airfare would kill me!

I tried fiddling around with a screwdriver and pick and didn't have any luck. The other key I have won't even go in so I called a few places:

Locksmith A wanted $75US to pick it and cut a new key.

Locksmith B said they could do it for $25 - $40US.

Then I called a Yamaha Dealer. $18.52. They cut a new key from the code I provide them and presto! (I hope.) Will go up there hopefully on Friday and see how they do. Will let you know it works out.

Thanks for the suggestions!

get 2 cut, then you won't get caught out again

They shouldn't need to pick it open.

They should be able to read the inside and/or impression the keyway and just cut a new pair for a few bucks.

There's a lot of cowboy lockies around, but the proper ones will cut keys faster, better and for less than the High Street places like Timpsons.

Yamaha Dealer tried making new keys from the code on the cylinder - no luck.

Locksmith B was able to pick it and cut new keys for a quite reasonable $35US.

Ok, now to see how the beast is running this year!

Locksmith B was able to pick it and cut new keys for a quite reasonable $35US.

Told ya... told ya.....

No-one ever believes me when I say that Pro Lockies (not the expensive cowboys) are the best option...

Respect to the old chaps in Timpsons, Mr. Minit and so on, but they're just amateur key cutters. Lockies spend years developing amazing skills and working on very complex mechanisms.

I have about 200 friends who are all Pros. In order to make a living, they have to a great job at a competitive price and chances are (particularly with an Auto specialist) that there's not a lock on the planet they can't sort out.

Makes my lock skills look pitiful!!

Lockies spend years developing amazing skills and working on very complex mechanisms.

The guy I went to actually enjoyed working on the old lock, something different for him. A change of pace for him and he nearly thanked me for getting to work on it!