New trade/please ignore first posting of this/bad format

As a forty year tool and diemaker I may be forced into retirement due to the shenanegans at Delphi Automotive. I have long thought of entering the locksmith trade specializing in lockout service, perhaps further specializing in auto lock outs. CY: It is a challenging field.

Here are my questions:

Auto club towing services respond to these type of calls with a plethora of specialized tools designed to manipulate the locking mechanisms from within the doors. It appears from the manual I own that most makes/models of cars require their own unique tool. Furthermore, due to the increased content of electrical components and wiring within the doors, those weilding these tools are cautioned about damaging same. CY: I have found that there are several sets of opening tools. Some more simple than others. I like simple. I've got some tools that are no longer made, and also a Tech Train set. I've had a couple cases where I could not open a door iwth Tech Train, but the old tools worked fine.

Having said all that, are these type of tools used because A: car door locks are not able to be picked or B: tow truck drivers don't have the skill to pick (either because they're not skillful or because, for whatever reason, they are not taught how). CY: I think that part because tow drivers seldom learn picking. I've been picking locks for 20+ years, and I can pick maybe one of four car locks. And that is even with knowing which ones not to bother trying. I think the sets have so many tools to make them more fascinating. Wish the older sets were still available.

It appears to me that because of the ever changing internal designs and the necessity to be forever investing in new door tools, that lock picking (for those that have the ability) would be the way to go. CY: The advantage with picking is tht customers love to watch, which really isn't an advantage cause we try nto to teach lock picking. But, it's a skill that sets you well above the tow drivers. More professional.

Comments please. CY: Pick what you can, and hten go into the door panel if you can't pick it.

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hey, ya gotta pay to play the locksmith trade :-)

Most auto locks are not especially practicle to pick. Even many of the ones that are possible to pick without special tools are difficult because of dirt, keyway shutter, in the way etc.