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How to fix seized lock ?
May 1, 2023
Before going directly to the explanations about how to fix a seized lock, it is important to understand the structure of a lock mechanism. A lock consists of six elements:
- A cylinder, or more commonly called a “barrel”. It is located in the center of the lock and takes the form of a metal tube.
- A stator, fixed part, and a rotor, mobile part which compose the cylinder.
- A bolt. It is an essential element of the lock since it is the part that will be used to lock and unlock the mechanism; it is activated thanks to the cylinder rotor.
- A strike is the part which is fixed on the door and in which the bolt will be housed. It can be manual or electric.
- A faceplate that corresponds to the visible face of the lock on the edge of the door. It is only fitted on mortise locks.
In addition to these six elements, you can complete your lock with a latch and/or a padlock on your door. This will strengthen the security of your door. These two elements also require maintenance for effective safety over time.
Things you will need
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Microfibre towels
Step 1
A LOCK GETS DAMAGED WITH TIME!
A lock, like any object, wears out over time. Several factors come into play.
First, the number of uses of your seized lock. The more you use it, the faster it will get damaged.
Other factors also come into play; an outdoor lock will tend to damage faster than an indoor lock due to weather conditions. Indeed, humidity and temperature changes can damage your lock mechanism.
Added to these factors are dirt, such as dust, dirt or any other residue.
All these factors must be taken into account when maintaining your locks in order to improve their lifespan and efficiency.
Step 2
WHAT PRODUCTS TO FIX A SEIZED LOCK?
The ideal way to fix a seized lock is to use a lubricant. WD-40 offers several solutions to maintain your seized locks: WD-40® Multi-Use Product or WD-40 SPECIALIST® Fast Release Penetrant. Each of them has its advantages and can therefore meet your lock maintenance needs. You can contact local distributors to know if one of these three products is available in your country.
For quick and punctual lock maintenance, a multi-purpose lubricant such as the WD-40 Multi-Use Product will do the trick : its five functions will allow you to wick away moisture, loosen and / or unblock your lock in a few sprays into the mechanism.
When your lock is blocked by rust, we advise you to use the WD-40 SPECIALIST® Fast Release Penetrant.
Step 3
Unlock your seized lock with WD-40!
No matter which product you choose to use to fix a seized lock, the use remains very simple. It will only take a few minutes and no disassembly of the lock is necessary.
Using the extension tube, spray the product inside the mechanism. Then insert the key into the lock. Then lock/unlock the mechanism several times so that the product penetrates as well as possible. Repeat the action as many times as you feel necessary.
Most of the time, this action will only be necessary once or twice a year to preserve your seized lock!
OTHER TIPS FOR THE MAINTENANCE OF SEIZED LOCKS!
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