Lost keys to coupler barrel lock

[tommysully]

I posted awhile back about having lost all our keys when our truck was broken into. I was able to get replacements for everything but there's still one issue left. We have a barrel lock on the coupler latch, like this one:


Advice on YouTube is geared toward hitch lock removal where they basically hammer it out. That doesn't seem like an option here without damaging the coupler. Is a locksmith the best option for this?

[OutdoorIdaho]

Originally Posted by tommysully

Is a locksmith the best option for this?

A good locksmith is likely the best option for a non-distructive solution.

[JeffE]

We have the same lock. The keys are numbered - if you remember the number, I imagine you can get a replacement.

If not, a sawzall will remove it in about five seconds without damaging the coupler.

Jeff

[tommysully]

Originally Posted by JeffE

If not, a sawzall will remove it in about five seconds without damaging the coupler.
Jeff

I was wondering about sawzall but didn't know how it'd do on the metal in this lock.

[CRH]

An angle grinder with a cutting disk will take it off

[rucos]

even the best high end bike locks dont last more than 60 seconds when cut with an angle grinder ....it will remove that in a flash with no damage if your careful.....probably can buy one for the cost of a lock smith.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

If you go the angle grinder route, do be careful. You will be through the lock quicker than you think. It's amazingly easy to "bump" the tongue once you go through .....

Bob

[switz]

Harbor Freight has good enough for at least one use grinders probably under $20

[21Airstream]

Originally Posted by JeffE

… If not, a sawzall will remove it in about five seconds without damaging the coupler.

That’s what I did a few years ago when I had that problem. It didn’t take more than five seconds to get the job done (and no collateral damage either).

[Old Fart]

The sawsall is the best way, a locksmith will cost three time the cost of a new lock.

[ITSNO60]

Another option is to drill out the lock cylinder if you don't own a ginder or sawzall or are inexperienced in their use. A big drill and work up to a 1/2" bit will do it while someone holds it from spinning with channel locks. Grinder is still best but can be dangerous if inexperienced with one.

[tommysully]

Originally Posted by uncle_bob

Hi

If you go the angle grinder route, do be careful. You will be through the lock quicker than you think. It's amazingly easy to "bump" the tongue once you go through .....

Bob

Yeah this is exactly what I'm worried about. Apply a little too much force and I'm going to really mess up the tongue.

[uncle_bob]

Originally Posted by tommysully

Yeah this is exactly what I'm worried about. Apply a little too much force and I'm going to really mess up the tongue.

HI

One option not yet mentioned is a cutting disk on a Dremel tool. It's not any cheaper than the other alternatives. It may be slightly easier to control. The disks can shatter so it's best to use a face shield .....

https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-420-He...1819944&sr=8-9

Bob

[WHUDS22]

Originally Posted by JeffE

We have the same lock. The keys are numbered - if you remember the number, I imagine you can get a replacement.

If not, a sawzall will remove it in about five seconds without damaging the coupler.

Jeff

or grinder if careful

[WHUDS22]

Originally Posted by uncle_bob

HI

One option not yet mentioned is a cutting disk on a Dremel tool. It's not any cheaper than the other alternatives. It may be slightly easier to control. The disks can shatter so it's best to use a face shield .....

https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-420-He...1819944&sr=8-9

Bob

yes they shatter I went through 3 on a job once

[PC Conner]

Originally Posted by ITSNO60

Another option is to drill out the lock cylinder if you don't own a ginder or sawzall or are inexperienced in their use. A big drill and work up to a 1/2" bit will do it while someone holds it from spinning with channel locks. Grinder is still best but can be dangerous if inexperienced with one.

I would add to Brian's suggestion--use vice-grip pliers vs. channel locks. That will hold the lock securely without having to keep pressure on the pliers.
I have a Dremel tool and am sure it would do the job--but wear safety glasses (but I don't always), for either sparks or pieces of the cutting wheel.

[thewarden]

Originally Posted by uncle_bob

HI

One option not yet mentioned is a cutting disk on a Dremel tool. It's not any cheaper than the other alternatives. It may be slightly easier to control. The disks can shatter so it's best to use a face shield .....

https://www.amazon.com/Dremel-420-He...1819944&sr=8-9

Bob

Yes, this. I cut a padlock off of my coupler with a Dremel. Easy to control. And it took less than 10 seconds. Once I realized how quickly and easily they can be cut, I now just use a $2.00 pin.

[CRH]

I once watched a man cut down a basketball goal post with a Dremel and a few cutting disks. I was impressed.

[uncle_bob]

Hi

Those little disks are impressive. I'm sure there is something out there they will not slice through. Whatever that is, I have not run into it yet. They have quickly gone through every lock / chain / cable / bolt I've ever attacked with them. It might take a couple disks, but they are cheap.

Every time I see anybody talking about their "impossible to defeat" lock I remember these little disks......

Bob

[Mollysdad]

How would a thief remove it?
A 3' piece of pipe slipped over the lock and a sharp bend. The shaft snaps right off.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Lq6_N5K1L4