Help with Locked Roof Bars

[TUFTY]

I am looking for some advice. I have bought a new (to me) car which has some roof bars attached and locked. No key was provided for the bars and I want to remove them. I don't mind wrecking them as they are pretty crap and i have another set in the garage. There are no numbers on the locks to get replacement keys so I am considering drilling the locks.
Has anyone done this ? and helpful hints or tips?

Many Thanks

Tufty (Paul)

[chewy]

A big screw driver and a big hammer would be my first try.

[John Kennett]

Failing that jwalker has a special key that will open most things

[Bigmuz7]

Thats an awkward one, so as not to damage the car roof ... I think you would have to drill the lock out, its bound to be a fairly simple lock, which secures the clamp that holds the bars on. It might be stainless though so its weatherproof

[RAD]

If your not bothered about them, then surely hacksaw/angle grind them off from the other side (or is that too destructive?)

[chewy]

Originally Posted by RAD

If your not bothered about them, then surely hacksaw/angle grind them off from the other side (or is that too destructive?)

Angle grinder might be a bit harsh, the sparks will soon rust into the paint if its not completely covered.

[TUFTY]

Combination of drilling, hammer & screwdriver and brute force did the trick.

Didn't have to resort to angle grinder

Thanks you all for your advice.

Cheers

Paul (Tufty)

[biffer]

Originally Posted by John Kennett

Failing that jwalker has a special key that will open most things

is that a pikey