Picking Ace Locks

[ajf5577]

Has anyone had success picking round Ace locks? I googled it and there are some tools that you can use for this. I just wondered if anyone has tried it ?

It's difficult for me to just drill out a 50 year old original lock if there is an alternative.

[HowDueYouDue]

Mind posting a picture of the lock?

[Slapshot42]

Has anyone had success picking round Ace locks? I googled it and there are some tools that you can use for this. I just wondered if anyone has tried it ?

It's difficult for me to just drill out a 50 year old original lock if there is an alternative.

You may check a local locksmith.  If there is a number on the key core check eBay under ACE lock you be surprised your number may pop up as a listed key for sale...

[ajf5577]

You may check a local locksmith.  If there is a number on the key core check eBay under ACE lock you be surprised your number may pop up as a listed key for sale...

I've done the eBay search.  This one doesn't come up.
I'll get a picture up ASAP, but it's a round Ace lock like on most all soda machines, candy and cigarette machines.

[MoonDawg]

It's difficult for me to just drill out a 50 year old original lock if there is an alternative.

        Understood, but what good is picking the lock if you don't have it's key to keep using it daily?

        Somewhere in past posts here on the board, someone recommended a small circular hole cutter made to break into the Ace lock.

        I kick myself for not buying one back then, but I'd order one today if someone finds that source.

[brasskey]

        Understood, but what good is picking the lock if you don't have it's key to keep using it daily?

        Somewhere in past posts here on the board, someone recommended a small circular hole cutter made to break into the Ace lock.

        I kick myself for not buying one back then, but I'd order one today if someone finds that source.

I just usually punch in the center and use a sharp 1/4" drill bit. But, they make small hole cutting bits for ace locks. Like here - http://www.bumpmylock.com/tubular-lock-drill-bit.html.

[ajf5577]

        Understood, but what good is picking the lock if you don't have it's key to keep using it daily?

        Somewhere in past posts here on the board, someone recommended a small circular hole cutter made to break into the Ace lock.

        I kick myself for not buying one back then, but I'd order one today if someone finds that source.

Glen, they are easy to re-key.

I can understand drilling newer locks, but I have one that is obviously old and would look good (to me) on the restored machine. That's the only reason that I would go to the effort.

 I saw some circular lock picks on a website, and there are some YouTube videos showing how. I was wondering if anyone here has done it.

[davethebirdman]

i bought the kit to try and pick locks and gave up after about half an hour. But I'm not a very patient individual.

Dave

[Creighton]

Find the oldest locksmith guy working in a been there forever storefront. He just may have the correct blank "somewhere".
In San Jose, CA found a guy that had correct blanks and made keys for just about everything I owned at the time. I brought in a Mills gum machine. I was told "I'm too old to fool with the forked key locks".

Take away there was don't buy any uncommon lock without the key.
Creighton

[steven c]

If there's a number a key can be made. If it's a newer Ace two drill it.
Drill the pins with bit a little bigger than the pins to remove the lip on inside and out side ring. The pins are spring loaded and most of it will come out. There will be two pins or maybe three in each hole. Use a long thin paper clip or similar object to work the hole pushing in and out. Tap with small hammer if necessary on face and tilt the machine forward if necessary. Stick a small blade screwdriver in center slit to turn. If it doesn't there are still some pins or spring in hole.

Just drill to the hole and not deep in the hole,,