I have an 86 4Runner and cannot figure out what this keyhole is for. It is behind the fuel door to the left of the cap. It is mounted on a curved surface and the escutcheon ring around it it is molded to fit the area. The door/ignition key does not fit it. The previous owner claims he never noticed it and only had one key for the rig.

I've tried looking behind the body panel but cannot see that area. I was thinking it might be a lock to remove the hard top but that seems illogical. All vehicle features seem to work normally so I am at a loss regarding its purpose. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.
Bill

 

i'm cureas as well

 

Got a pic?

 

never noticed it before

 

Need a pic.

 

Yes pics now

 

Emergency fuel shut-off?

Definitely need pics.

Fink

 

I'm curious and would like to see a picture.

 

Here is the pic everyone requested. An emergency fuel shut-off seems unlikely considering it's location. If I knew how to access the area behind the fuel door I could figure it out but that job looks more involved than I want to get. The keyhole is just below the black cable release latch. The silver escutheon ring has a flat spot on it to accommodate the body panel seam and the black ring is molded to fit the curved mounting area on the right. It looks like a factory installed item or a very well designed aftermarket piece.
Thanks,
Bill

 

That is weird...I have no clue.

Fink

 

That's interesting!

Maybe it's wired up as a battery cutoff for when parked? I know, weird location, but what crook would think to look there, right??

Curious what the answer is!

 

could lock your gas cap on like a old style locking gas cap

 

No idea either.

 

After market alarm ?

 

whats on the other side? wires?

 

I say you start pulling that thing apart and let us know what it is!

Fink

 

How do I access that area? I tried to get to it from under the vehicle but the only thing visible is the fuel fill line and a vent line. I could see no hint of the back of the tumbler or the fuel door release cable.
Bill

 

Get at it from the inside. Remove the inside panel, it's only held on by snap clips.

I'm curious to find out what it is. I don't have that in my 86 4Runner.

 

I also want to know. Nothing like that on my '87. Keep in mind that I want you to tear into it purly for my entertainment. It would be a cool place for a fuel shut off.

 

^^^^ What is that thing? Is it a dancing brownie? ^^^^