Lock change on truck canopy T handle

[quadrafire]

Is it possible to change the lock on a canopy T handle, or do you just replace the unit?
I have one that has had me locked out for a week. Put a bunch of graphite lube in the this morn, and with a little coaxing finally got it open.

[whacker1]

I believe they can change the tumbler, but it is probably cheaper to go to the canopy store and buy a new lockset and do it yourself.

[Heredoggydoggy]

Those locksets are so chintzy that just about any key will open them.  They are--or were, the same key as the locks on cabinets.  Back when I had my airplane, the key to my truck canopy would unlock and start half the airplanes on the field.
One day a guy came up to fly his plane when I was there, and he forgot his airplane keys.  I lent him an extra canopy key so he could go flying. 

[quadrafire]

I think they are the same locks used on bike racks, yakima/Thule etc. After letting that graphite lube set in there a bit, it works like a charm now. So i'll just hang for awhile.
If I lose my key, I'll give you jingle to borrow the one from your airplane 

[Happy Gilmore]

An old john deere tractor blank key works well for most older Mercury ignitions if you push it in hard enough...don't ask me how i learned that trick...

[quadrafire]

I hear on the news about the car theft rings here in spokane. Seems like they are always finding shaved keys on them when busted.
So lots of vehicles must start without a perfect fit 

[Alchase]

Is it possible to change the lock on a canopy T handle, or do you just replace the unit?
I have one that has had me locked out for a week. Put a bunch of graphite lube in the this morn, and with a little coaxing finally got it open.

To answer your question, all the canopy dealers will be able to replace the lock and key for you. I had my Leer done about 10 years ago. I believe the dealer said there were only about 8 lock key combinations for all the leers at that time, LOL.

[wraithen]

Also take a look at southco. Nissan didn't think the wetbox on the roof needed a lock. The handle and lock I got is pretty stout and the lockset seems pretty darn tough.

[Bofire]

  Happened to me a few years ago, took it to the canopy guys they swaped them out with new keys for $16.00 on the spot, I was gone in 15 minutes. all new handles etc.
Carl

[Slenk]

KEy from my camp trailer Side Storage doors works in my canopy. Also have one from cross bed toolbox that works.

[toothfangclaw]

And all of these keys will open locking gas caps and master lock padlocks. as a good friend once said, "locks are just there to keep the honest guys out". Very true.

[Moose-head]

a latch with a padlock is ugly but effective