Ignition Key Number Location

[philward]

Further to sorting keys for my 500k2, have now got keys to fit seat and steering lock and was hoping that it also fitted the ignition switch as I can't see a number on it anywhere. (I've had a light and magnifying glass on it). It looks a genuine Honda switch. Where is the number normally stamped?

[Bryanj]

On the face you put the key in is normaly where it is

[philward]

I have an old ignition switch with a number on the face like you say Bryan but on this switch (and the one on my 750k2 - which is genuine Honda that I purchased new as a lock set), there's nothing on the front.
Ahh well, I'll buy a repo!

[Bryanj]

You could always cheat and take it apart and remove/file pins till the key you have fits

[philward]

Any guidance on how to do that Bryan? As that would be a great outcome as then I would have 1 key fits all locks etc

[Bryanj]

I will have to look at one of mine at the weekend and get back to you on that

[philward]

Thanks Bryan

[philward]

I will have to look at one of mine at the weekend and get back to you on that

Any joy Bryan - finding out about how to 'remove/file pins till the key you have fits'

[Bryanj]

Sorry mate had a really shite week at work and to be honest forgot. I will do my best to look over weekend as i have a few jobs to finish.

[philward]

Don't worry Bryan, no rush as I can do it anytime (as long as I know how to do it!)

[McCabe-Thiele (Ted)]

If its like most of the older generation vehicular ignition key arrangements you need ideally remove the ignition switch, insert the correct key initially. Find the detent plunger on the switch casing insert a thin rod or a straightened paper clip. This should then enable the key to come out of the lock with the barrel attached. Some very sneaky ignition locks have the detent plunger hidden by a thin film of alloy casting that needs drilling out first.

Once the barrel is out you will see that the brass levers are all flush enabling it to turn in the switch. Remove the correct key & insert the one you want to use instead. With the wrong key inserted the brass levers/plates will protrude so it will not turn the lock - you file these flat to adapt it. Depending on how different your keys are might result in almost any key fitting the switch. This can be avoided on some locks by swapping the levers around - it can be a bit of a nightmare though as the small brass springs can all pop out - depends on how the levers are retained.

THis has worked for me on old car ignition  switches - I'm thinking bikes are not that different.

[philward]

Unfortunately, I can't get a key - because there's no number on the switch. I was hoping that the steering lock/seat lock key (which had visible same numbers) would fit, but no such luck

[McCabe-Thiele (Ted)]

Unfortunately, I can't get a key - because there's no number on the switch. I was hoping that the steering lock/seat lock key (which had visible same numbers) would fit, but no such luck

Ah I thought you were just trying to get one key to fit all - methinks you will need to buy a replacement switch.