Keeping locks and handles lubricated?

dekaspace

I used to use WD40 which helps if something hasn't been done in years but after a short period they get a little creaky again (though nowhere as extreme)

What I mean is like I have a yale lock with a modern twist latch on it, when I moved it it was tight that it was loud whenever it opened and force needed to be applied when closing door to close it, after a bit of WD40 was on door slid close without force, my verandah door lock and handle was very stuff and required force to turn key but wd40 made it usable for a few weeks now its back to using effort to turn key and lift handle.

I was thinking old fashioned oil for this, but didn't see it in poundshops only spray grease, would this work well enough?

Ectophile

WD40 is a very light oil, which will gradually evaporate away. I prefer something thicker like "3 in One Oil", which has been around since 1894 (according to Wikipedia), and is still advertised for sale today (a quick Google suggested several suppliers).

dekaspace

That seems to be the one I used to see in pound shops but none around me, Wilko did have oil (which advertised as for household and car etc) but was a tiny bottle for £1.75 and plastic so if it cracks can do a lot of damage.

Le_Kirk

WD40 is, as it's name infers, Water Displacement and it was the 40th version, if you believe the urban myth. It is not a lubricant. Use 3-in-1 oil. I bought a tin in 1894 and it's still going strong!!

Mr.Generous

I remember from my hardware days a lock expert telling me locks should never be lubricated with oil, it attracts muck and gums them up. He suggested using graphite powder.

It is cheap and is the proper way to do it.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/p/?iid=302047150220&&&dispItem=1&adgroupid=39910041817&rlsatarget=pla-300453705338&abcId=1088896&adtype=pla&merchantid=110223798&poi=&googleloc=9046506&device=c&campaignid=805055692&crdt=0&chn=ps

Just found it at Maplin too, 90p

with this advice ...
Ambersil Graphite Lock Lubricant

• Extends the life of locks and padlock• Long lasting lubrication, no oils to attract dirt and grime• Dry film repels water• Works even when lock has mild corrosion• Ideal for corrosive or saline conditions• Helps prevent snapped keys• Padlocks open first time – even after extended inspection times• Ideal for locks on remote equipment, buildings, and cabinets


Product details

Whether its for routine maintenance or long-term shut-down this Graphite Lock Lube will help to prevent your locks and padlocks from becoming seized or corroded. Just put the nozzle into the lock cylinder and press to fire a jet of high quality graphite lubricant into the lock to coat the moving parts. Because the graphite forms a dry powder it is ideal for indoors or outside, hot or cold conditions and it will prevent sticking from a build up of contaminants.

TheCyclingProgrammer

Graphite lubricant for locks, 3 in 1 oil or PFTE lubricant for hinges and catches. WD40 is a poor lubricant.

Ebe_Scrooge

Definitely graphite for locks.


A very cheap 'n' cheerful way of doing it is to use a penknife to scrape some "lead" from a pencil ( the so-called "lead" is actually graphite ). Use that to lubricate any parts you can get to, also use it to coat the key then slide the key in and out a few times and give it a few turns.


Not as convenient as proper graphite spray, but it costs next to nothing

getmore4less

Aldi have the 3in1 set of spray lubricants not cheap but handy for the future

PTFE, silicone and a lithium grease.
https://www.aldi.co.uk/search?q=3in1

Biggles

getmore4less wrote: »

Aldi have the 3in1 set of spray lubricants not cheap but handy for the future

PTFE, silicone and a lithium grease.

But no good for locks.

Mr.Generous

getmore4less wrote: »

Aldi have the 3in1 set of spray lubricants not cheap but handy for the future

PTFE, silicone and a lithium grease.
https://www.aldi.co.uk/search?q=3in1

I've seen those sold for about £6 each so pretty good value. The silicone is really good for drawer runners and curtain track. White lithium grease is great on the car under the bonnet, suspension etc it really clings.

getmore4less

Biggles wrote: »

But no good for locks.

Can't have enough choices of lubricants for any occasion.

Too many people have have WD40 as their only choice.