Resource for spare 308 keys cut from number coded Nieman & Safe originals

The 78 308 GTS I bought this summer only came with one set of keys, the original numbered Neiman & Safe Torino pair. Since they were numbered, I set about finding a supplier who could cut from the numbers rather than follow the pattern on a template cutting machine. This also gave me the security of holding onto my valuable original keys and just supplying the keymaker with the codes over the internet.

The supplier I used (Keytrader) is in the UK. I'm sure others must exist around the world. For reference, the key blanks required are NE9A for the Neiman and AF4A for the Safe Torino door & fuel flap key. Total cost <£20 delivered for four spare keys.

The spare keys are on blanks made by Errebi (Italian) for the Neiman and JMA (Spanish) for the Safe.

These spare keys are perfect, unlike template cut keys which are often not very precise. My original keys are now stored in a safe place along with the tool bag, jack bag and manuals.
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My local lock smith has the exact same keys in Silca for the ignition, he cut me a couple and also for the Torino door/ fuel flap keys, the new ones reads SAFE, works perfectly, no codes was needed.

Regards
Johnny

 

I'm glad you have a good locksmith and got him/her at the right time of day. However, codes are totally foolproof and there are a fair few careless locksmiths out there.

A key copy that's very slightly off could potentially wear the levers slowly into a shape the original won't roll properly with. I've experienced it happening on another lock with a copy set I used for years. I then dug up the original keys but they could barely turn in the same lock.

 

What if you rotated usage between the original and copy? Would that help?

 

That'd depend on when the copy was cut as a dupe. If the original is already somewhat worn, not much help I think. imo it's not worth the risk if you have the original codes available. That's what the manufacturer intended. Cutting by code is like reproducing a digitally perfect original image & by duplicating is akin to a photocopy which inherits faults and may add more of its own.

 

You are correct but I used the spare unused ignition key that came with the car to make copies.

the other used key is very slightly worn and I stashed it away, Im using my new cut key now. It goes easy and the ignition lock 'kicks ' out nicely when i turn off and remove.

 

Did the cars come with 2 sets of original keys? My guess is they probably did, but I only have one original set.

 

The 308s should have 2 sets. Lots of cars have 1 set left probably being lost/broken/stolen. These keys do break due to wear and fatigue, especially the steel ignition Neiman keys.

I made some decent repros of Neiman earlier with modern material that looks just like steel and the Torino/S.A.F.E. door/fuel cover keys are coming soon using original material.

 

My '75 GT4 came with 2 sets of keys with the same key fobs. Ignition is Neiman, door keys say CROMODORA on one side and Dino on the other.
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Neat old school fobs!