Quote:
Originally Posted by dataway
I thought I remembered a key machine for auto keys back in the 60's 70's that instead of grinding the keys it sheared the notches, was handheld I think, with a set of dials on the top for each notch.
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Those machines were to make a new key using the factory codes, rather than copying an existing key that most retail key duplicating machine used. GM dealers had them for the most part at their parts counters, I personally have never seen one of the detent cutters at any retail locksmith stores.
They also came with a go, no go, gauge so you could gauge an old key, and make a new one using the gauge to reveal the code. I always preferred to have keys cut with one of them, as opposed to the motorized key duplicating machine, especially if the key was worn that you were currently using. Even though tumblers would wear in the lock cylinders a new key would many times restore good operation to a lock that didn't operate well with the old worn key.