CAL Automotive Locksmithing Tools 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which type of key cutting machine uses a stylus tracing a code wheel or original key to reproduce a cut pattern?
- Laser/Sidewinder cutter
- Code cutting machine
- Pantograph duplicator (Correct answer)
- Punch-cut machine
Correct answer: Pantograph duplicator
A pantograph duplicator traces the original key or a code template with a stylus and simultaneously cuts the duplicate to match the profile.
Question 2: What is the primary purpose of a depth and space gauge in automotive key cutting?
- To program transponder chips
- To measure existing key cuts and verify cutting machine accuracy (Correct answer)
- To remove broken key fragments from locks
- To test the tensile strength of key blanks
Correct answer: To measure existing key cuts and verify cutting machine accuracy
A depth and space gauge allows locksmiths to measure the precise depth and spacing of cuts on an existing key or to verify the accuracy of a newly cut key.
Question 3: A laser key cutter (also called a sidewinder cutter) is specifically designed to cut which type of automotive key profile?
- Double-sided standard keys
- Tubular keys
- High-security laser/milled track keys (Correct answer)
- Four-track keys
Correct answer: High-security laser/milled track keys
Laser key cutters are designed to cut high-security laser-cut (milled/sidewinder) keys that have cuts machined into the side rather than the edge of the blade.
Question 4: When using a code cutting machine, what is the 'bitting list' used for?
- Ordering replacement lock cylinders
- Identifying the sequence and depth values for each key cut based on the key code (Correct answer)
- Logging customer information for compliance
- Selecting the correct key blank from inventory
Correct answer: Identifying the sequence and depth values for each key cut based on the key code
A bitting list (or bitting code) provides the specific depth values for each cut position on a key, allowing the code cutter to produce the correct key from the key code alone.
Question 5: Which tool is specifically used to extract a broken key fragment that has snapped off inside an automotive door lock cylinder?
- Plug follower
- Key extractor (Correct answer)
- Slim jim
- Pick gun
Correct answer: Key extractor
Key extractors are hooked or barbed tools inserted alongside a broken key fragment to grip and remove it from the lock cylinder without damaging the cylinder.
Question 6: A 'tryout key set' for automotive locksmithing is used to:
- Test newly cut keys for correct depth
- Progressively try many pre-cut keys to open a lock without the original key (Correct answer)
- Program EEPROM data in key fobs
- Identify the make and model of an unknown vehicle
Correct answer: Progressively try many pre-cut keys to open a lock without the original key
Tryout key sets contain a series of keys with different bitting combinations that are tried systematically in a lock to find the correct combination without the original key.
Question 7: What is the function of a 'clamp' or 'jaw' on a key cutting machine?
- It holds the key blank securely in the correct orientation during cutting (Correct answer)
- It programs the transponder chip embedded in the key
- It measures the depth of existing cuts on a key
- It polishes the edges of freshly cut keys
Correct answer: It holds the key blank securely in the correct orientation during cutting
The clamp or jaw on a key cutting machine firmly holds the key blank in the proper position and orientation so that cuts are made accurately at the correct locations.
