Coding your GM locking gas cap DIY
 

*EDIT*
This cap is now replaced with GM part # 23159210
The price has increased to around $50 online.

So There are several threads about this gas cap and having it coded by a dealer for $50, or having a locksmith do it.
If you dont have extra cash or your key code you can follow my instructions and get it done in less than 10 minutes.

For those of you that do not know, this cap works with your existing side cut key. About $22 from dealer, $15 or less online
GM part # 22790846
AC Delco # GT344

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps3ef0085e.jpg



The tumblers are listed as 1L, 1R, 2L, 2R, etc. these are left or right specific.
One side of the lock cyinder has 2 keyhole slots and one has 3. The side with the 3 keyhole slots is the LEFT side.
There are 2 tumblers per side, the 3rd one on the left side is for the brass retainer clip.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps37e3aa67.jpg

Grab one tumbler that has a L in it and insert it into the first keyhole slot.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...psc1b10834.jpg

Hold the tumbler centered in cylinder and insert your key all the way.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...psf301389c.jpg

Slide the sleeve (tab end first) over the cylinder.
If it stops at the tumbler it is the wrong one. (pic below)
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps6ad0ef29.jpg

If correct it should slide all the way up and rotate 90 degrees.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps044e168d.jpg

Once first position is correct leave it in and repeat for other left tumbler.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps9bc536ca.jpg

Then find both right side tumblers the same way.
Now carefully remove each tumbler and remember its location.
(the 5,6,7,8 below is the order of the cut positions if you get the code from the dealer)
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps05692f7f.jpg

Insert 2 springs (I did right side 1st)
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps6cf93baa.jpg

Insert tumblers.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps2e361b59.jpg

Repeat for left side.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...psafbc44ae.jpg

Insert your key, and slide over the cylinder sleeve.
Make sure it rotates smoothly.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...psf7782057.jpg

If everything is good insert the last spring and the brass keeper till it clicks in place.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...psa3a37dea.jpg

Check for full operation one last time. Once you install the cylinder into the cap it will not come out.

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...pscd90bb2b.jpg
Align the 3 tabs in the cap, and the 3 grooves of the cylinder.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...pse0a701c5.jpg


Press together, till it clicks. You may have to rotate the handle, while holding the white part of the cap. Make sure you get those 2 tips on the end of the cylinder to line up.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps6927ede5.jpg


Insert key, and test.
http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s...ps192b3ca5.jpg

Thats all, its pretty easy.

You're pics aren't working for me.

They should be up now.

Nice Writeup, great info!

When I saw all the parts that come in the bags I was worried, but getting them togther was really easy. Good job with the pictures. I have had mine for over a year and this keeps me from leaving the keys in the car when I fuel up. :chevy:

Thanks,
I was worried about trying it myself, but I ordered it anyway. :thumbsup:

When I figured it out, well I decided I had to show others how easy it can be.
The hardest thing was holding the tumblers in place while adding more.

Nice.

Great write up. I'm planning on doing this real soon.

sweet! too bad i already have the defenderworks cover

Thanks for the pics. Very helpful!

wow never knew this existed from GM... will purchase soon!

I just did this not 10 minutes ago. Easy peasy. And it DOES fit 2010s for anyone wondering like I was. (book doesn't show it fitting 2010 for some reason)

Just a couple of notes. The pin holding it onto the cap can be a mofo. It's plastic and will pop off, but you may mangle it if you're not careful. I almost did.

Also, obviously since it has more moving parts, it's heavier than the original cap by far, so be careful not to let it drop when you're removing the key so it doesn't clunk the quarter panel. More potential for damage.

[QUOTE=el ess X;5818213]
Just a couple of notes. The pin holding it onto the cap can be a mofo. It's plastic and will pop off, but you may mangle it if you're not careful. I almost did. QUOTE]
Yeah I didn't talk about removing the strap to the door. Your on your own there:D

Thank you!