CAL Ignition System Servicing 3

Question 1

What is the purpose of a 'plug follower' when servicing an ignition cylinder?

Accepted Answer

To push the key plug out of the housing while retaining the springs and pins

Answer

A plug follower is inserted behind the key plug as it is removed to keep springs and pins loaded in the shell, preventing them from scattering.

Question 2

When decoding an ignition cylinder by feel using a pick, the locksmith is determining which characteristic of the wafers or pins?

Accepted Answer

Their height or depth setting within the cylinder

Answer

Decoding by feel involves sensing where each tumbler sets, revealing the depth value at each cut position, which translates directly to the key's bitting code.

Question 3

A vehicle owner reports that the ignition key turns but the engine does not crank. Which component should the locksmith suspect FIRST?

Accepted Answer

The ignition cylinder mechanical linkage to the ignition switch

Answer

If the key turns freely but no electrical action occurs, the mechanical-to-electrical linkage between the ignition cylinder and the switch behind it may be broken or disconnected.

Question 4

Which ignition key type uses a round, hollow shaft and is associated with motorcycles, desks, and some older vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Tubular key

Answer

Tubular (barrel) keys have a hollow cylindrical tip with cuts around the circumference and operate tubular pin tumbler locks found on motorcycles and other applications.

Question 5

When a high-security ignition lock uses a sidebar mechanism, what additional element must align for the cylinder to rotate?

Accepted Answer

Gates in the sidebar pins that must line up with the sidebar

Answer

Sidebar locks require both standard pins/wafers to set AND sidebar pins to align their gates with the sidebar, making picking significantly harder.

(CAL) Certified Automotive Locksmith Practice Test

(CAL) Certified Automotive Locksmith Practice Test

CAL Ignition System Servicing 3