Dealer says exterior storage locks are generic

[HappyGuy]

I was told by my dealer to rekey my exterior storage on my RV at time of purchase. The rep wasn't pushing a service. In fact he recommended I head to a hardware store to get the new locks. His reason was that according to him, all of the exterior storage locks on RVs are generic and anyone with an exterior storage key can unlock any one elses exterior storage.

Is this true? If so this is the first I've herd of it and it floors me to think that anyone would think that this was acceptable.

[firephighter]

The old CH751 key. This has been the standard key for storage for years. I don't suggest trying yours out on others campers, but it does work. But really, if somebody wanted in. They would get in.

[prof_fate]

I've been told that too - that all RVs use the same key for the storage and even the inside keys dont' have much variety.

Not that I've seen anything at a hardware store short of a padlock/hasp to change to something more secure.

[dmf564]

Yep. For the most part they are all the same. Had a 2010 Jayco Jayflight 17z and those outside storage keys will unlock my 2012 Coachman Catalina. I've been thinking about changing them out as well, but I would like to swap them out with the new slamlocks. Just not sure if its doable or not.

[firephighter]

I think it would bother me more if I had to put my camper in storage, while I wasn't using it. Since I have room at home to store it inside a fence, it is not a big worry. Also in C/G it is not a big worry. I feel that it is for the most part safe there as well. I am only away for the most a couple of hours. I hope I am not too trusting.

[NO3putt]

Pros and cons on changing the locks: PRO: a little more sense of security CON: if they want in they will just pry the door off. I would say most campers will not take you stuff. If you have you unit stored at a storage lot where I hear most of the stuff is taken take the valuables out and store at home. Just my 2¢ worth.

[myredracer]

I replaced ours with the barrel type key. Simple as it's just a re & re. Can't recall the name of the place at the moment. These are better than the original CH751 keys and I replaced the old lock as well as the twist latch (2 per door). Sure, won't keep a determined thief out but will hopefully give them a reason to pause and leave it alone.

Another option is to buy a c/g membership at a Thousand Trails, RPI or similar place. Not very likely to have evil riff-raff at them.

If you are storing your camper at a storage lot, why would you leave valuables in there to worry about?

[VinceU]

Not quite true, not all lockers are ch 751, many are I have one of 15 exterior locks is a 751 (gas fill cap door). The balance are different lock sets, depends on the mfg.

[mduff]

We needed to replace a lock, the dealer looked at my existing key and attempted to source the same lock number from his stock. Yeah they are mostly the same, and as posted keeping the honest people out is the primary value.

[Wiscampsin]

Sadly, it would probably take less time to pry the storage door open with a screwdriver or crowbar than it would to unlock it with the key.

[burati1]

In to follow ...

[firephighter]

Originally Posted by Wiscampsin

Sadly, it would probably take less time to pry the storage door open with a screwdriver or crowbar than it would to unlock it with the key.

True. At least if they have a key. They can unlock, snoop around to find I have nothing worth having in my storage. Then lock back up when done.

[rjshiflet]

We had the CH751 lock on our RVs for 9 years and never had anything go missing. I personally wouldn't be afraid of other RV owners who had the key...they're for the most part very honest folks.

My concern would be thieves that were looking for something they could grab and sell quickly for a few bucks. If they have a key...as was said before, they get in and get out with no physical damage. If they don't have a key...they tear up your RV to get whatever they want.

I very rarely lock ours - we now have different keys that came stock on our new Columbus - but leaving it unlocked 98% of the time...we've never lost a thing.

[SPPD]

On 2 of my three campers the outside storage leads into the interior of the trailer. I am really not too concerned still, but we just dont keep anything of much value inside. 10 years of camping, and never had an issue.

SPPD

[timarti]

Bent the key in one of the storage compartment locks. Dealer found another for me in his "miscellaneous" drawer. Was at an antique store later in the day. Glanced at a tray full of keys. Sure enough, one looked familiar, a CH751, so I got another! Did not realize they were "generic" until reading this thread!

[mshell56118]

I work on large generators and all our doors for outside units are ch751. So if any one needs one let me know you pay postage and I will send you a couple. Probably will only cost whatever a stamp is.

[Herk7769]

www.ch751.com was where I ordered all new common keyed locks.

Do NOT buy locks for the propane doors. (DoT regs require easy access during emergencies)

[anthonyshaw]

Originally Posted by herk7769

www.ch715.com was where I ordered all new common keyed locks.

Do NOT buy locks for the propane doors. (DoT regs require easy access during emergencies)

dead link?

[myredracer]

Herk, I think you perhaps meant "ch751.com"? Then it takes you to Industrial Lock and Hardware which is where we bought our "tubular" locks from. Awesome service from these guys. I placed an online order about 5pm and they actually called back about an hour later after hours to confirm the order details.

[kho6658]

Originally Posted by firephighter

True. At least if they have a key. They can unlock, snoop around to find I have nothing worth having in my storage. Then lock back up when done.

X2
When I put mine is storage there is nothing in there but my black hose, FW hose, leveling blocks. All easy to replace if someone really needs them.