How to Remove Yakima SKS Lock Core with Control Key Y8007835 If Core Is Still Locked

Question:

I purchased a core key for my Yakima roof rack , but I haven’t been able to remove the key cores. Any suggestions on how to remove key cores? Thanks.

asked by: Dave G

Expert Reply:

Your Yakima Control Key # Y8007835 will allow you to remove a Yakima Same-Key-System (SKS) lock core only if it is unlocked. The same is true for the equivalent part from Thule, their Universal Change Key # 853-1251, which can remove a Thule/SportRack lock core such as # THLOCKN140.

The reason that these control/change keys only work on unlocked locks is security. If these special keys allowed you to remove any Yakima or Thule lock core even if locked then there would be little benefit to using the locks in the first place.

If your lock core is still locked your options are to drill it out to allow removal or to obtain the correct matching key for that specific SKS lock core so you can unlock it and then use the Control Key to remove the lock core. Yakima replacement keys are available as part Y8772-_ _ _ _ where the last 4 characters are the lock/key number, such as key part # Y8772-A133 which fits lock A133.