"Douglas C. Neidermeyer" > wrote in
:

> On 5/27/12 2:21 PM, Tegger wrote:

>>
>> Do NOT use dry graphite as a lock lubricant.
>>
>
> I thought those dry powdered graphite-packed syringes were a
> locksmith's first response for sticky keyways/tumblers??
>



Ordinarily, I guess they would be. The problem with car locks -- and what
makes them different -- is that they pick up a lot of water, and water
that's sometimes mixed with salt.

Automakers install a little metal door in the key slot in an attempt at
keeping out most of the water. It does work against dust and dirt, but each
time you push the key into a wet lock, you push some water into the lock.
Locks are made of corrodable metals. Over time, corrosion makes the
tumblers stick in their sliding-recesses. This eventually causes the
tumblers to stop sliding, and either 1) the key won't go in, or 2) it won't
come out, or 3) it won't turn.

In addition to all that, the tiny spring that holds the flap closed tends
to break. And at that point the flap hangs open and allows /everything/
inside.

Graphite is meant to lubricate locks that are always DRY, or which have a
chance to dry out if wet, such as house locks. If you live in Arizona,
graphite will work for you. Otherwise, graphite in an automotive lock tends
to form a slurry with the water, making it take even longer to evaporate,
and letting it corrode the metal parts even more. Graphite does not prevent
corrosion.

Lock Ease, probably the most popular lubricant meant specifically for
locks, isn't really a good choice for automotive locks used in snowy
climates. You need an oily substance, not a graphite-y substance. Some will
tell you not to use an oil on account of dust, but that warning is not
applicable to car locks.

I have found that a substance called "Rust Check", which is apparently sold
only in Ontario, Canada, works the best. But then it never gets much below
-10F where I live. A very similar substance is sold under the Carwell brand
in New York State. The OP's problem is that he's in an area subject to
extremley low temperatures, so he needs an oil even lighter than the one
used by Carwell. A gun-shop or sewing-machine shop may be able to help.

--
Tegger