I have a Barrecrafters Sierra SX 53 ski rack purchased many years ago and never used! I want to find keys for it ... the lock area has a code "B-218"--- any way to get replacement keys?

Barrecrafters (Sportrack) Universal Roof mounted Ski Rack
Model SX-910

Universal roof mounted ski rack
will work most automobiles.

Do you have a " most " automobile?

Lock Smith can do a Tap and File (Insert a Blank and rotate it and File to get the lands and grooves to get it done (Time Consuming) and Cost Extra Money

Try a Different Locksmith

I found specialty mounting hooks for my unisport rack at www.prolineracks.com

Hope this helps.

sounds like a pressure issue ( binding problem ) --- when you go to lock the locks ( with the skis and/or snowboard on rack ) try and push down hard on the rack while you turn the locks,, this might get the pressure off enough to allow the lock cams to pass. if this does not work then the next thing to do is to file down and modify the lock cams so they turn easier without binding. if you do not have the tools to do this modification then you can always go down to your local locksmith shop ( with the skis/snowboard on the rack ) and have them do the modifications -- the shop will only charge you around 10 to 15 dollars for this service.
I hope this helps,

c...

Call Proline Products Inc. at 203-265-7535. They can answer that for you and they might have the hook kit in stock.

look and see if there are any letters and numbers scribed on the face of the lock cylinder, this is the key code-- with this code you should be able to go to your local locksmith and they will be able to cut you a ' key by code ' and it will work. if there is no code on the lock then you can also just take the rack to the lockshop and they will be able to pick and remove the cylinder from the lock and fit a key to it by hand. normal shop rates for making a key in this fasion is about $12-$15 dollars and if you want more than one key - duplicate keys cost about $1.75 to $ 2.50.
(( even if the lock does have numbers on it -- take the rack to the shop with you to make sure the key that they cut by code works before you leave the shop,,, saving you a second trip ))

c...

Find a dealer in your area, it should have a number on it for them to get you a replacement. OR, most locksmiths should be able to do the job while you wait.

Try the local snowboarding shops, or online directly thru Barrecrafter. Also a local Hardware store my have stapping that may help you out. good luck enjoy the snow

We figured this one out today, after pounding, twisting, sliding, gerunding, etc.

It will not slide backward (as a safety mechanism, of course) unless your latches (the ones that connect / clamp onto the car) are completely loose. That means, that looking at the rack from the end, you'll see this oblong deal that you'll use to tighten the rack to a car. As you turn it clockwise the rack will tighten, right?

Ok. Just make sure that that guy is as loose as he gets, and your piece will slide back just fine.