Just bought a 42 WLA (with 52 front end) with no ignition key. What's an easy fix for this so I can try to get her running? Friend I bought from says he garaged the bike (running) in Nov 2011. Hoping it will fire right up. Advice please.

 

So ignition is locked? If so, find a cheapo 5 pole reproduction, install and go for it. In the interim you can pull the original switch (if original) take it apart and replace locking mechanism. Original switch parts are not cheap.

 

any decent locksmith should be able to make a key, have them make 2. You may need a spare. By the way, that is a nice bike, is it a hunt magneto.

 

if you cant stand not having it running Just take the wire off the side of the mag all it does is ground the points to stop the engine

turn the fuel on choke it and it will fire // to stall it out choke it or use a wire on the mag terminal and ground it -- it will shut off

 

Thanks y'all! I took the ignition off and took it to a local locksmith and he was glad to hand cut keys for her. Cost $30 and she cranked right up. Thanks for the advice.