Need some help getting these wheel locks off..
Need some help getting these wheel locks off.. Been at this for a week or so, want to see if I can get some other ideas.
Anyway, I discovered that when I bought my Formula back they did not include the key to the wheel locks with the car. I've attempted to get it off using a few tools that are supposed to remove them, but have failed. I also took it to two different tire shops, and they couldn't get them off, either. Part of the issue is how tight the space is... I could probably get them off pretty easily if there was more room... but it's super tight and I'm trying not to damage the wheels.
I dunno if anyone has any suggestions... but I'd really like to get my wheels off so I can install my new shocks / springs.
Here's some pictures of the wheel locks.
Anyway, I discovered that when I bought my Formula back they did not include the key to the wheel locks with the car. I've attempted to get it off using a few tools that are supposed to remove them, but have failed. I also took it to two different tire shops, and they couldn't get them off, either. Part of the issue is how tight the space is... I could probably get them off pretty easily if there was more room... but it's super tight and I'm trying not to damage the wheels.
I dunno if anyone has any suggestions... but I'd really like to get my wheels off so I can install my new shocks / springs.
Here's some pictures of the wheel locks.
tough call...
wonder if you could dremel a slot in the end and try to crack it with a chisel or basically turn it into a flat head screw?
I hate wheel locks
what about one of those "gator grip" sockets that use lock pins to conform to the bolt they are used on, if a couple pins line up in those slots it might be enough grip to loosen it
like this:
wonder if you could dremel a slot in the end and try to crack it with a chisel or basically turn it into a flat head screw?
I hate wheel locks
what about one of those "gator grip" sockets that use lock pins to conform to the bolt they are used on, if a couple pins line up in those slots it might be enough grip to loosen it
like this:
or basically turn it into a flat head screw?
I hate wheel locks
wheel locks
what about one of those "gator grip" sockets that use lock pins to conform to the bolt they are used on, if a couple pins line up in those slots it might be enough grip to loosen it
Walmart stocks them here
The only other idea I have would involve being able to grind the chrome off and weld a bolt or nut to the lock which doesn't have a high chance of success.
Sucks man..
The only other idea I have would involve being able to grind the chrome off and weld a bolt or nut to the lock which doesn't have a high chance of success.
Sucks man..
I usually avoid Walmart like the plague.. but maybe I'll have to try that out.
12 Second Club
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1,548
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different senario mine were exposed more, but to sell my old camaro had to remove 4 of them, ended up buying a deepwell socket 13/16 maybe? pounded it on the lock and then was able to breaker bar it right off. i bought a craftsman socket as they have a lifetime replacement.
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TECH Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 523
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From: Illinois, as close to "Normal" as I can get...
Check with a Snap On or Mac tool vendor, they maked knurled sockets just for removing wheel locks. Its kinda like a female "easy-out". Hammer it on the lock and take it off. It will destroy the lock but if you dont have the key it doesnt matter. Most of my techs have one since half the cars traded that have wheel locks on them never come with the key.
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Teching In
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Winchester, TN
You might try to drill the stud out, but wheel studs are pretty hard and then you'd have to replace the 4 wheel studs. I drilled some out for a customer when I worked in the dealership, but it was a real pain.
Snap on has a "turbo socket" in the master lock lug removal kit that you hammer on the lugs and then has a punch to remove the nut from the socket. As you try to remove the nut, it tightens itself down. It's in a kit, but I don't know if you can purchase it by itself.
Snap on has a "turbo socket" in the master lock lug removal kit that you hammer on the lugs and then has a punch to remove the nut from the socket. As you try to remove the nut, it tightens itself down. It's in a kit, but I don't know if you can purchase it by itself.
Last edited by Rockhound; May 22, 2014 at 09:43 AM.
I have looked online for sockets, yes.. I've tried two different ones so far. The things ain't cheap and once you use it you're stuck with it.. so I am a little hesitant to keep trying them.
Check with a Snap On or Mac tool vendor, they maked knurled sockets just for removing wheel locks. Its kinda like a female "easy-out". Hammer it on the lock and take it off. It will destroy the lock but if you dont have the key it doesnt matter. Most of my techs have one since half the cars traded that have wheel locks on them never come with the key.
At this point I am basically stuck with having to do whatever it takes. I'm trying to avoid this option at all costs, though...
For the rear, could you possibly pull the axle out with the wheel on it? I'm thinking that would involve disconnecting the brake line and caliper from the backing plate, then pulling the axle off with the wheel, rotor and caliper. When it's off, maybe you could cut the stud from behind to avoid damage to the wheel... maybe?
For the front, disconnect the caliper from the spindle, disconnect the brake line and unbolt the hub to gain access to the back of the studs to cut them there... again, maybe? I've never tried this, but your wheels are big and you may be able to get enough access.
Dang, I feel your pain. Good luck, man.
For the front, disconnect the caliper from the spindle, disconnect the brake line and unbolt the hub to gain access to the back of the studs to cut them there... again, maybe? I've never tried this, but your wheels are big and you may be able to get enough access.
Dang, I feel your pain. Good luck, man.
Teching In
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Winchester, TN
You might want to talk to the dealer again if they sold you a car without the key to get the wheels off. See if they can help you out a little bit as this situation you're in is of no fault of your own.....
On The Tree
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 110
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Good advice. They make a socket just for that purpose. Easier that way.
You can't get the axle out with the wheel on.
TECH Enthusiast
Joined: Jun 2013
Posts: 523
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From: Illinois, as close to "Normal" as I can get...
If the dealer wont help find a local wheel & tire shop, they are equipted to deal with things like that on a daily basis. It might cost $20 but it will be worth not screwing up your wheels.
Well, right now my only viable option is over $400... so I have no problem with spending $20.
different senario mine were exposed more, but to sell my old camaro had to remove 4 of them, ended up buying a deepwell socket 13/16 maybe? pounded it on the lock and then was able to breaker bar it right off. i bought a craftsman socket as they have a lifetime replacement.
12 Second Club
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1,548
Likes: 1
Do this, I had a wheel lock break on me and I couldn't get the locks off my truck. The holes were very similar to your wheels and after I was quoted like $200 to get them off I took matters into my own hands. Go to Harbor Freight or some cheap tool store and buy a 12 point 1/2 inch socket that'll be just a little smaller than the width of the lock then hammer it on while making sure it goes on straight and doesn't damage your wheel. Then use your ratchet to remove the socket and wheel lock with it. It'll be impossible to remove so get 4 sockets and don't use your nice sockets like I did for the first one...
edit:heres some pics of the socket i used, 21mm 12pt craftsman. worked well
Last edited by JDEP162; May 22, 2014 at 07:19 PM. Reason: pics