Quote:
Originally Posted by Vaneta
I have been somewhat frequently using silicone spray on the locks.
Initially I blamed the difficulty on the fact that I had had several copies of the originals made and thought maybe the originals had been shaved a bit or something but now, I've actually bent both originals just a tad trying to open the door. There's no "rhyme or reason" to when they open and don't without working at them so I no longer lock them when I leave the dog inside. So I think I'd just like to replace them and start out with new keys, etc.
I have had combination locks on my vehicles and house several times and have really liked them. (Your comment though made me remember that it's been a long time since I've used my key in my Expedition so I'd better do it!) On the TT, my concern is just that it fits the slot. Below is an example of one I looked at
https://www.amazon.com/Products-013-...+door+lock#Ask |
I have never replaced a latch on an RV but they relatively a uniform size so odds are it would work if you wanted to go that route. The key pad area is a bit bigger than what is there but it likely sits on the outside skin of the door.
RVs typically use a lock cylinder type called a
wafer tumbler lock. Most houses use a pin and tumbler style. The tolerances in the wafer style are greater so normally you don't see them getting stuck as often. You said there was no rhyme or reason to when they open and don't. Odds are there is a wafer that is sticking. That is the nice thing about the graphite solution that was mentioned. The alcohol can help flush out any lube that might have been used before. If you have a lock that isn't opening, insert and remove the key a few times. Repeated motion of the wafers might unstick the one that is likely hanging. There isn't much to these lock cylinders but they do get gummed up, springs can get weak where they can't push down all the way on the wafer or keep it in line with the position that the key is calling for and you can't turn it. It was already mentioned but I also use
Lock-Ease. A word of caution on this. It will make a mess as you spray it into a lock. It will shoot out and run down the inside.
You could go with a complete latch replacement or just replace the cylinder. Normally to get the wafer locks out there is a replacement blank but I am not 100% certain with the RV style. I just haven't done it.
While I am not a locksmith, I am professionally trained in Lock Forensics. Basically picking locks, disassembling them and analyzing them under a microscope and determine how they were defeated.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TWP723
Dielectric grease.
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Locksmiths will love you for that. I use dielectric grease on a lot of stuff. Locks isn't one of them. Any grease or oil based lubricant will pick up dust and dirt which cause them to gum up over time. You want a dry lubricant or one that dries in the case of a graphite in an alcohol or other solution that evaporates out.
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