7 Apr
2025
7 Apr
'25
5:23 a.m.
On Sun, Apr 6, 2025 at 10:02 PM The Doctor via cctalk
<cctalk(a)classiccmp.org> wrote:
On Sunday, April 6th, 2025 at 11:04, Tony Duell via cctalk <cctalk(a)classiccmp.org>
wrote:
4 pin, pin tumbler.
FWIW it has 3 positions, 45 degrees apart, key removeable in all 3.
There are 3 sets of upper pins/springs. The plug also appears to slide
in and out, the upper pins for one of the postions are deliberately
offset backwards. There is a compression spring at the back that
pushes the plug forwards (this I have removed) and a pin on one side
that probably engages with a groove in the plug to guide it. It seems
you can switch between 2 of the positions (ON and PM) by just turning
the key but to select OFF you have to push the key/plug in.
The keyway is very restricted, presumably to make it hard to pick (a
total waste of time, you can remove the lock with normal hand tools
and operate the switch camshaft. Or bypass the switches electrically).
My intention, based in part on advice from said locksmith was to turn
a suitable plug follower, tap out the pin holding it together (I hope
that's possble, otherwise I have to drill the pin out) then use a
blank to lift the pins so I can 'shim' it from the rear. Push out the
plug with the follower, remove and measure the lower pins, then cut a
key. The locksmith agreed with me that due to the restricted keyway it
would be very hard to pick.
If all P3800s are keyed alike and such a key exists then of course
it's a lot easier.
Does anyone know anything about the key lock on
the mains on/off
switch of the P3800?
I have one without a key. I can't identify the lock manufacturer (no
markings on it at all) so I've not been able to get a blank to cut a
replacement key. A friend who is a locksmith said she'd never seen
anything like it.
Do you know what kind of lock it is? Pin tumbler? Wafer? Lever? Tubular?
Warded? Disc? Sidebar?
Can you see the edge of a pin from the front of the lock? Is there just one or two?
Can you post a picture of what you can see?
Can't post photos here,
We both know how the lock works. It's the shape of the keyway that's
odd. We have both seen and worked on pin tumber locks, although one
with 3 sets of upper pins and the plug that slides in/out is unusual.
Did your locksmith friend tell you any details
she'd been able to suss out after
inspection?
Nothing that I didn't already know.
-tony