Dam Keys murphy's law.

bri

Well-known member
Apr 20, 2004
6,178
152
US
So I was in Cortez CO the other day and broke a key in the cargo do, which is where I access all my gear during a 2 week trip.

Locksmith in Cortez was smart enough to figure out how to get stub out. Can't speak highly enough about his skills, I probably would have broken something plastic.

I had my spare (copy of manufacturer key), copied so I had a spare. Thought nothing of it. So I have a copy of original key and a copy of the copy. LOL.

So I get to the middle of nowhere everything seems cool Until this AM when I tried to start the vehicle key wont turn to to start engine. Key kind of feels funny on the tumblers or lock mechanism. If I am patient and jiggle it around a bit, I can remove key. Even more patience and I can get it to turn and fire up.

Because of where I am, I am leaving it turned to the point where the door beeps, but no dash lights come on.

Is there any risk of battery drain if I just leave it in there like that?

Nothing appears to be running. I left it like this overnight and it seems good this AM.

I guess I should start with a manufacturers key blank for a 98 D1 and see if that helps, but it certainly is not going to help me for this trip.

Any advice comments or recommendations?
 

Tugela

Well-known member
May 21, 2007
4,754
561
Seattle
I recently replaced my ignition cylinder with a new unit from Lucky 8. Not a difficult job, the hardest part was disconnecting the wiring. AB has a video of the procedure. Could you get one shipped to where you are? Tillery also sells this used, comes with a matched driver door lock so you don't need 2 different keys. If you're in remote areas during an extended trip this suggestion might not be helpful.
 

ERover82

Well-known member
Nov 26, 2011
3,899
450
Darien Gap
Can't imagine there's much more draw than completely off. Those portable lithium jump starters are very handy for these situations and more.
 

bri

Well-known member
Apr 20, 2004
6,178
152
US
I recently replaced my ignition cylinder with a new unit from Lucky 8. Not a difficult job, the hardest part was disconnecting the wiring. AB has a video of the procedure. Could you get one shipped to where you are? Tillery also sells this used, comes with a matched driver door lock so you don't need 2 different keys. If you're in remote areas during an extended trip this suggestion might not be helpful.


Why did you replace the ignition? Your FOB still works, I would assume.

If the vehicle got really stuck, i.e. I cannot advance key to be able to get out of park, what then? You can't tow can you?

I may see if Will or AB can ship ignition and brake switch to someone in cortez or escalante UT.

Yep. I am remote, but it is only a big deal if I have to walk out. In 3 days I have seen 5 vehicles. It would be 15 miles to get to a 2 lane highway. On the way in/out I only saw a few vehicles, but there are houses.

Another wonky thing that has been this way for a while is that I have to use the key on the cargo door. This was true even before the locksmith got the broken key out. To get it to open consistently I have to unlock with the FOB, then open the cargo door with a key. Its like the FOB does not completely open the door.

I think for now, just leave the key in the vehicle turned. Not my first choice as it really means i need to remember not to turn vehicle off completely and then if I fvck up, pray I can get it back on.
 

bri

Well-known member
Apr 20, 2004
6,178
152
US
Can't imagine there's much more draw than completely off. Those portable lithium jump starters are very handy for these situations and more.


Yeah... I thought about the lithium thing before I left, because I did not want to bring a generator. Its cold at night so the fridge can be turned off. Its more about not freezing my beer!
 

Tugela

Well-known member
May 21, 2007
4,754
561
Seattle
Why did you replace the ignition? Your FOB still works, I would assume.

Another wonky thing that has been this way for a while is that I have to use the key on the cargo door. This was true even before the locksmith got the broken key out. To get it to open consistently I have to unlock with the FOB, then open the cargo door with a key. Its like the FOB does not completely open the door.

To answer your first question, my ignition cylinder started spinning in place. I'd turn the key and the whole cylinder would rotate instead of the key twisting inside the cylinder. Yes, fob still works.

If your truck is a D1, your second issue is likely a broken lock spring inside the cargo door. If you can open the door by holding the key turned in the lock, or from the inside by holding the plunger up, then this thing has snapped and you need a new one. Cheap part, moderate PITA to fix if you have big hands. Might as well get the set of 5, as the same problem is likely going to happen on the other doors eventually.
 

Tugela

Well-known member
May 21, 2007
4,754
561
Seattle
I'll add that I have a Word doc with photos detailing the walk-through on the cargo door lock spring replacement. Anyone reading this is welcome to send me a private message with their email address and I'll send a copy of it.