Common issues: sticky cylinder wafers are unpredictable and worn keys makes
bad copies.  The old key I sent Steve looked nothing like the new key he cut
using the correct code.

I'm sure Steve will chime in but I'd recommend #1.  The code is stamped into
the pronged piece that is attached to the handle assembly and engages the
door latch mechanism.  You can easily remove the door handle be removing the
#3 screw on the edge of the door behind the rubber door seal.  I believe the
Bentley Manual covers this...  You may need to clean off 20+ years of grime
to be able to read the code.

Follow Steve's advice for lubricating your existing locks (Tri-Flow), then
try the new key!

If it works well in all your locks you can order additional (and high
quality) keys from Steve with confidence.

Andrew

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Steve Williams
Sent: Thursday, October 13, 2011 8:55 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: rebuilding Vanagon door locks - Steve's Lock Shoppe

My camper has the doors and ignition keyed the same, but badly, so the two
keys I have each must be inserted into each lock in a slightly different way
to get them to work.

Part of the problem is that my keys are not cut symmetrically or accurately,
so when I have copies made, the copies usually don't work.

Would the following be a good strategy?

1. Send Steve's Lock Shoppe the key code, in the hope that the ignition
still matches that code, and ask for one key.

2. Try the new key in the ignition.  If it works:

3. Stash the camper in the hangar, send all four door locks to Steve's Lock
Shoppe for rebuild, and drive the Beetle until they come back.  Ask for a
bunch of spare keys.