On 05/28/2012 04:30 AM, Tegger wrote:
> wrote in
> :
>
>> On Sunday, May 27, 2012 1:21:53 PM UTC-5, Tegger wrote:
>>>
>>> You appear to be in MN. What's the coldest it gets for you in the
>>> winter?
>>>
>>> Call a locksmith. They have special oils that are meant for this
>>> purpose.
>>>
>>> If you can't locate a locksmith, go to a hardware store, gun shop, or
>>> sewing machine shop, and get a small container of the very lightest,
>>> thinnest oil they have. If it's aerosol, the better for you.
>>>
>>> Spray or inject this light oil into the lock. Do not skimp. If not an
>>> aerosol, drench the lock in the oil and work the key in and out of
>>> the lo
>> ck
>>> a few times to drive the oil deep into the lock.
>>>
>>> Also, use a NEW key, and not a new one made from the old one; worn
>>> keys
>>
>>> will cause big problems, especially with worn locks.
>>>
>>> Do NOT use dry graphite as a lock lubricant.
>>>
>> It's been as cold as -30 degrees here. However, I find it hard to
>> believe that the problem with the driver's side door lock is
>> weather-related given that I had no problems until a few days ago.
>
>
>
> You didn't read my whole message. See the part about the key.
>
>
>>
>> What kind of oil do I need?
>
>
> Just what I said: the "lightest, thinnest oil" they have.
>
>
>
>> How do I know that this wouldn't make the
>> problem worse? (You said that graphite would make the problem worse.)
>
>
> The thicker the oil, the slower the lock will turn in the depths of winter.
> That's why I asked about your local temperatures.

tegger, the reason locksmiths sell graphite lube for car locks is that
it's a solid state lubricant - it doesn't freeze.


>
>
>>
>> If the light oil works, is it a permanent fix, or do I still need to
>> have the tumblers or other lock mechanism fixed/replaced?
>
>
> You've just answered your own question.
>
>
>
>> Would it be
>> a good idea to treat the door lock on the passenger's side as
>> preventative maintenance?
>
>
>
> If it works for the driver's lock, and if the driver's lock still turns
> easily in January, then yes.
>
>
>
>> Is there a chance that I could ever have a
>> similar problem with the ignition?
>
>
> If the problem is due to a worn key, then yes. The primary difference
> between interior and exteerior locks is their exposure to weather.
>
>
>


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