Hi all,

What is the recommended way to lubricate the ignition barrel. Just had to fight to extract the key as it was jamming in the barrel.
I used WD40 and left to soak, but read awhile back that that was not suitable for longer term use.

Thoughts please

TIA

 

I’ve heard of a graphite spray that’s supposed to work well.

 

+1 for graphite. I haven't personally used it on a key barrel but that is what I have always heard is the correct lubricant.

 

AVOID LIQUID LUBRICANTS.

Dry graphite is the only stuff you should use.

Also, sharp edges on the key can catch on the disks inside the lock, so should be buffed with emery cloth until they are no longer sharp to the touch when run your thumb over the cuts.

 

Any (non-dry) liquid will tend to mix with dust/dirt and gum up the works. (WD40 is to get rid of water which I hope you haven't got in that lock anyway...)

Another vote for dry lubricant e.g. graphite.

 

PCjags, oh my God. You've already sent the lock halfway to nirvana with wd40. The stuff is only good for dissolving rust, but it does that very well. However, it ultimately removes the plasticizer from the plastic. I doubt whether the lock will last long. Graphite powder does work, but it also leaves black fingers and dirty clothing and you can't wash that out so easily. If grease then acid-free grease such as Vaselline, if oil then acid-free oil such as sewing machine oil. Teflon spray would also be possible. Last but not least, there are care sprays for locks on the market, also from the brand WD40.

 

Rub an HB pencil on the key & insert it in the barrel > repeat. The graphite from the pencil will leave a thin layer on the key. Works on many keys & myriad other things (e.g. cogs).

 

Hi All,

Doing some more digging and found this - stay with it, his advice seems logical.

@Jo van Haag not sure what plastic you think there is in an ignition barrel, these models are pure metal, I know I have taken them apart several times. As this barrel is a used replacement I was surprised it arrived with a light grease on the tumblers, as was the removed one. (notice comment in the video regarding this)
However, my latest problem started when the 'dust cover' on this one seems to have picked something that caused it to not allow the key (old not new so no fresh cut sharp edges) to be taken out, so wondered what I should use when I remove it to clean it out and lubricate it.