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DarkVader · 10-16-2021, 03:01 AM

This small metal compartment is to the right of the passenger seat. It's about 20cm by 20cm and I don't have the key for it.

Is it a small "safe" or secure lock box for money and valuables? Maybe there's treasure inside...

1993 Gulf Stream Scenic Cruiser

153stars · 10-16-2021, 04:10 AM

You should be able to drill out the lock with about a 3/8" bit .

Dav L · 10-16-2021, 09:22 AM

Those types of locks are pretty easy to pick with a thin rigid pick and a screwdriver to apply rotation pressure in the unlock direction. And if like the outside baggage locks, there aren't too many keys that fit many lock cylinders...try some. Borrow some to try.

CRV2 · 10-16-2021, 09:25 AM

I would call a mobile locksmith and have them open it and make a key for you. I suspect it wouldn't cost too much ~$50 or so.

Dav L · 10-16-2021, 09:44 AM

If you are able to pick the lock open, once open the cylinder can be removed to bring to the locksmith for a new key / cylinder. Less expensive than a mobile locksmith charge (I would be very surprised if it's only $50).

Alpine36 · 10-16-2021, 09:50 AM

Try a few locking gas cap keys, such as the ever popular ch451.
Wiggle and jiggle, she'll magically pop open. Treasure awaits.

Bylandorsea · 10-16-2021, 09:54 AM

If you can find a key or two that will fit into the lock, I have had some luck rapidly running the key in and out while keeping slight rotational tension to the right

Mike-NM · 10-16-2021, 10:00 AM

I would use a lock pick set to open it then change out the cylinder. A cheap lock pick set can be found on the internet for under 10.00.

arcaguy · 10-16-2021, 11:09 AM

That what is known as a cam lock, they are easy to pick if you know how to pick a lock. Look for the MIT guide to lock picking on the Internet. I got my copy several years ago but I imagine it's still out there. Do not use this knowledge for criminal purposes. If you can find a number on the lock that is the key number, but I couldn't see one on the picture. Instead of calling a mobile locksmith I would try and take it to a local locksmith. Much of what the mobile locksmith charges for is the trip. In any event someone with the the requisite knowledge and skills should be able to open that compartment in less than 5 min. and replacement keys or locks should be less that $10. Good luck.

CRV2 · 10-16-2021, 11:43 AM

Just FYI, I have recently used a mobile locksmith and they charge a lot less than most people would believe. Here in Dallas Ft. Worth you can expect a $29 service call fee and many locksmiths will give the first 10~15 minutes of work with that. With the lock in the picture it may be less costly just to get it opened and replaced with a lock ready to go with keys already made. Those locks are not very costly.

https://dallasfwlocksmith.com/dallas...ricing-table|0

Argosy · 10-16-2021, 11:50 AM

If you want it done cheap drill it out and buy a new one from Amazon for $6.

Jim_HiTek · 10-16-2021, 12:29 PM

Dust off and nuke it from orbit.

Dutch Star Don · 10-16-2021, 04:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Argosy

If you want it done cheap drill it out and buy a new one from Amazon for $6.

Here's the best answer!

HopsBrewster · 10-16-2021, 04:37 PM

Try a CH751 key first. If that doesn't work, try Bylandorsea's suggestion in post #7. it's an easy way to open cheap cam locks.
While Argosy's answer certainly is very practical and cheap, learning to pick it is a lot more fun.