Anatomy of Pitlock

The following section describes in detail the workings of PITLOCK™:

The specially CNC-machined nut is one of 256 different shapes designed to make it impossible to use a standard socket set to turn it. Only the matching PITLOCK™ key (two come with every set) will fit it.
A look at the reverse of the coded nut reveals machined grooves that mesh with the teeth on the lockring in image 3.
The lockring prevents thieves from being able to turn the coded nut by using needlenose pliers. Only by compressing all of the teeth can the coded nut be turned. Note the hexagonal opening
Image 4 shows you the pressure washer. This is the part of the locking end that actually makes contact with the dropouts. Note the hexagonal inner ring.
Image 5 provides a quick glance at the reverse side of the pressure washer.
The teflon ring keeps the outer housing in Image 7 moving freely and isolates the lockring from the housing motion. These rings will last almost indefinitely, however, replacements are available.
Aside from the coded nut, this is the most important part of the PITLOCK™ system. This free-rotating housing rides between the pressure washer and the teflon ring. Any attempts to undo PITLOCK™ with pliers or vice-grips simply results in the housing moving independently of the rest. No luck for thieves. This sets PITLOCK™ apart from inferior locking quick-release skewers that use a removeable lever. These other products can still easily be gripped and turned with vice-grips!!The conical shape and 1mm thick steel make it almost impossible to grab and crush with bolt-cutters.
Image 8 shows how the lockring in Image 3 locks down onto the pressure washer in Image 4.
The completed unit. Each part fits perfectly with the next. Here is a quick recap:

1) The outer housing protects against vice-grips and bolt cutters.
2) The coded cannot be turned with a standard socket, and it is bevelled to proctect against needle-nose pliers.
3) The lockring prevents the coded nut from turning even if a thief manages to grip it with needle-nose pliers.

Finally, a look at the opposite end of the skewer reveals a conical shape and low profile absolutley impossible to grab.