Get the steel keys, they are only (usually) about $20 each.

The indy probably replaced the ignition with an original key one -- same way you get a new key from the dealer. Unless it was fairly old and the tumbler set had to be ordered from Germany, it should have come with a spare key.

The brass keys wear too fast -- the steel ones last about 30 years. A brass key made from a worn steel key will probably only work for a few years, not worth the hassle. They also crud up the tumblers, leading to another replacement.

I've also been told to keep the weight on the key ring down -- that means a separate ring for the car keys, don't hang it on a big bundle of house and shop and work keys. Bad for the tumbler set.


Peter

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1972 220D ?? miles
1988 300E 200,012
1987 300D Turbo killed 9/25/07, 275,000 miles
1985 Volvo 740 GLE Turobodiesel 218,000
1972 280 SE 4.5 165, 000 - It runs!