Wheel lock removal

[instro84]

Ok giys need some help here, lost the key to the lock on my AR rims. Anyone got a clue on how to remove locks without the key? TIA
Dale

[Be4u]

A looong time ago I had to take aluminum locks off my car. I used a very small screwdriver and a hammer, or maybe a wrench. Tap it gently. I couldnt believe it worked. Now that I think about it, maybe some of that penetrating oil will help. Results may vary.

[irockwithdirt]

If U don't care about damaging the lock and are willing to sacrifice a socket.........find a deepwell socket that will almost fit over the lock.........then drive it on with a hammer. Use a breaker bar and with any luck it will be off.

If U know the maker of the locks, sometimes U can get a key from the manufacturer.

Good luck.

[TTA1543]

Air chisel with a sharp bit, if the lugnut is accessible, but if you slip - you're screwed. Mig through the center of a standard lugnut (make sure you cover up ALL of the rest of the wheel if they're nice). Stop by a local tire shop - several tool manufacturers make internally tapered or splined sockets just for that purpose.

[turbodave]

I've seen the socket pounded on over the offending lock/lug work more times than not.

[jmidolo]

If the socket trick doesn't work, and your lug not are exposed and not set in teh wheel, I've seen a large socket slipped over the locking nut and the hit with a hammer and the studs actually snap. This would be a last ditch effort if the tight fitting socket won't back the nut off.

[turbofish38]

You might also drive by some place that does tires(i.e. dealer or tire store). They make this neat little tool that looks like a socket but inside it has counter rotated teeth that will grip the shinny surface of the lock and thus you will be able to unscrew them so a new set can be installed. I dont think normal tool places carry them as I have only seen them for sale from MAC,Snap-On and mail order.

[87natty]

I've had better luck using 12 point sockets than 6 points. And use a Craftsman socket, Snap-On guys don't like seeing a socket wiht a mushroomed top.

I've actually had a lug stuck on the stud, which was spinning loose on the rotor. Don't ask how. I got pissed finally and ended up removing the spindle with the tire and caliper on and chiseling off the stud. I had to get a new rotor after that one.