Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Automotive Lock Opening Tools
Nearly everyone locks their keys in their car at one time or another, usually paying a locksmith to open it, but a large variety of lock-pick tools are available for opening locked automobiles yourself. Locksmiths typically use an assortment, depending on the type of vehicle they must open. There are a few tools that are most commonly used when opening a locked car or truck.
The Loop
The loop is a simple device made of lightweight polyethylene that helps locksmiths open locked automobiles. A loop snaps onto other lockout tools to grab door and window handles. It glows in the dark, making it ideal for nighttime use and for work in dark areas like parking garages. Loops are strong, but flexible enough to maneuver into almost any angle. The loop is a time-saving device for locksmiths who are unlocking car doors with manual locks.
Slim Jim
A slim jim is a tool most people are familiar with. It is often used by locksmiths to unlock car doors. Slim jims are inserted through the weather stripping around the car window and bypass the keyhole to open the door. This tool is made for a variety of cars, but when using one, check to make sure it is designed for your cars make and model. In most cases, you should allow a professional to use a slim jim to unlock your automobile instead of doing it yourself. Damage can occur to your window or lock if a slim jim is used improperly.
Try-out Keys
Try-out keys, also called jiggler sets, are a set of skeleton-like keys which will open many varieties of automobiles (foreign and domestic). They are made from a spring temper stainless steel that doesnt bend, so a tension tool is not necessary to use them. They look much like a set of keys, but the ends arent cut and the metal is much thinner. Often used by locksmiths, repo companies and automotive detailers, try-out keys will pick a lock quickly.
Gas-Cap Tool
Gas cap tools or keys will lock and unlock most types of automobile gas caps. Typically, gas cap keys are double ended and work like a try-out key, picking the lock. Rather than leave your gas cap unlocked or off, which can lead to having your gas stolen or some prankster putting something into your gas tank, a universal gas cap key allows you to lock and unlock your gas cap even if youve lost your original key.
Wedge
Wedges are sold as either solid pieces of plastic or as inflatable devices. Essentially, wedges fit in the gap at the side or top of the door where it meets the body of your car. Wedges are used to pry the door slightly open and hold it there so that another tool can be inserted to open the lock.
Tension Wrench
There are a wide variety of types of tension wrenches used in locksmithing. They are typically used in conjunction with lock picks and help to provide turning tension to the pick in order to turn the pins inside the lock. Tension wrenches are designed for different applications and there are several specifically designed for opening automotive locks.
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