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MG MGA - Changing ignition tumbler

Greetings,

Try as I might, looking at the ignition switch from every possible angle, looking into that tiny hole for several minutes, I can't for the life of me figure out how the old tumbler pops out of the housing! I have a new tumbler and key set ready to install. Anyone familiar with the procedure. Thanks!
Robert Maupin

Robert - there should be a small hole in the side of the housing. If you stick a small punch, or wire, or other small, stiff object into the hole - you should be able to depress a small circular tab that will release the actual tumbler - this is the arrangement on my TF switch - I imagine the MGA switch is similar.

Hope you get it out.
J. W. Delk

Tried that since it seemed the most obvious. However, it must be guncked up in there and the tab not depressing correctly. I'll keep at it.
Robert Maupin

Robert, you need to have the key in the barrel first. Then turn the key to see the "plunger".
Neil McGurk

Car didn't come with a key. That's why I'm trying to replace the tumbler with a new one with keys.
Robert Maupin

Thought so! common problem! You can buy a key to change the tumbler quite easily (if needed - I have done this to have an original NOS Wilmott Breeden set) or you can buy two keys and leave as is. Does the tumbler have the key number on? (I have a few spare keys)

Neil
Neil McGurk

If Neil can't help, you can get keys made to your lock number for $10 here:

http://www.triple-c.com/Products_and_Accessories.cfm?pa=detail&zsb=0&pn=KEY-FP
Chuck Schaefer

Thanks guys! Lock number FP 691 or 169...can't tell which way to read the numerals. With FP upright, the number is 691. Cheers!
Robert Maupin

Robert,
You will frequently find that the whole thing is so badly worn that using a fine bladed pocket knife or similar in the keyhole will, with a bit of fiddling, turn the lock anyway. Security in an MGA isn't all that flash!

Andrew
A Buick

Finally dug out my old keys, found 8 FP numbers, 12 FS numbers and three FA. Unfortunately no FP 691. There is no FP 169 BTW.
There is one for £2.50 (UK delivery) on eBay at the moment I can forward if you need:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/CLASSIC-CAR-KEYS-FA-FP-FS-FT-TYPES_W0QQitemZ120531519372QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_CarsParts_Vehicles_CarParts_SM?hash=item1c103d078c#ht_919wt_1165
Neil McGurk

This thread was discussed between 19/02/2010 and 24/02/2010

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