if this is like the locks on one of my cars, the outside part just rotates -
it would take you a few hours of spining to wear it down internally enough
to pull off the sleeve and unscrew - but the picture is a little vague


"JB" wrote in message
...

"Rex" wrote in message
k.net...
Dan wrote:
Recently I purchased a used car from a private party for my wife. A
couple of days ago we noticed that there were wheel locks installed, so
we called the seller, and of course, they have no idea where the keys
are.

A quick call to the dealership and a quote of $180.00 to replace the key
(!!!) and I am motivated to find a way to remove the locks without
damaging the studs or wheels.

Here is a close up photo of a locked stud and an unlocked one:
http://www.oz.net/~dans/lock.jpg

I have basic metalworking gear at my disposal, files, dremel, drills,
c-clamps, etc. but nothing major such as oxy-acetylene or other welding
gear. Is this something that a local tire shop could handle for me? It
can't be too unusual of a situation....

You can buy a set of sockets for this. THey have internal teeth, and the
ID is tapered. You pick the socket with the ID appropriate to your
problem, tap it on with a hammer, then apply an air wrench.

Not knowing that there are special sockets for this purpose, we used to
just get a socket that was a little larger than the lug nut and beat it on
with a hammer. Used an air impact wrench to do the rest. Never failed!

Good Luck.

Joe...