August 25, 2009
What do you think is the best car opening book for locksmiths?
Question by red_samurai_dragon:
Im looking for a good set of books to buy that shows the diagrams of how to open cars for locksmiths. Which ones do you like? I use AllData for the rest of my mechanical needs in the shop, but now that im expanding, this will no longer cut it. Thanks!.
Im looking for a good set of books to buy that shows the diagrams of how to open cars for locksmiths. Which ones do you like? I use AllData for the rest of my mechanical needs in the shop, but now that im expanding, this will no longer cut it. Thanks!.
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Comments on What do you think is the best car opening book for locksmiths? »
Talk to the guy that drives your tool truck, I know Matco, and Snap-On have there own Lock Opening kit and have an available book to go with it. But its usually not publicly available.
Locksmiths have trade books available through their suppliers. They run $200 – $500 the set because of the limited sales, and are generally sold to established customers.
Many in my area just pick the lock, or use a set of dealer keys, about 250 to the set annually. With the amount of protective shielding around the lock now, slim jims and the like generally aren't worth the hassle of having 25 to 35 model specific types unless you do a lot of it. So they wedge the window and work the buttons with a stiff probe when no key or pick will do.
The books still won't substitute for basic unlocking skills – and the best place to practice is a salvage yard where you can easily see what's going on.
Don't forget the 'Brick' lock pick. It opens any car door in 1 second flat.