In the case of Vanagons, the "letter" the locksmith is looking for is
sometimes not there on the door handle(s), but usually appears on the
ignition lock cylinder (on the side, when removed from the steering lock).
The letter is N.  All Vanagons have what is called a "N" profile milling.
When looking up the code in the Curtis Code Book, all that will appear in
the listings are the numbers associated with the "N" profile (Gee I wish I
had that section).

Thank the gods VW was NEVER associated with a loser outfit like
Renault......

Jim Thompson
84 Westfalia 2.1 "Ole Putt"
oldvolkshome@earthlink.net
jim@karmannghia.com
http://www.oldvolkshome.com
***********************
----- Original Message -----
From: "Phil Menchions" <pmenchions@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, November 15, 2004 12:42 PM
Subject: Re: Makin keys

> Thanks for all your replies. Finally hit the right combination of
> keywords and pulled up lots of info from the archives.
>
> Just one Phillip's screw holding the door handle on. The key code is
> stamped right on there. The locksmith seemed a little puzzled,
> however. Asked me if VW owned Renault doh?! He said there is usually a
> letter associated with the key code. The first two digits were very
> tiny hard to make out. Any way left the door handle with him. Will
> have to wait and see.
>
> It's a shame, today I was supposed to drop off the van for a complete
> paint job before storing it for the winter.
>
> Cheers,
> Phil