Rusty Padlock?

Question

I cant find my wd40 any other way to free a rusty padlock?

Answer 1

Cooking oil!

Works a treat

Answer 2

Ok here we go. Firstly wd40 is not great. It just runs out of the lock. There is a link at the bottom of this page with stuff that is professionally design for locks and you can then click on the spec sheet.

In terms of fixing it then normal mineral engine oil is good. Even from the dip stick of your. If the lock is off the gate/shed then leave it in diesel overnight. That works a treat to remove all sorts of things. After lubricating then tap the lock. The thing that is stuck are the pins. they need freeing. Turn the key and tap until the spring wiggle loose.

One thing to note is that it takes time for lubricant to get in the lock. It will work a lot better they day after you full lube it up than after only an hour.

Hope this helps. I've been working in the padlock industry for a long while and manage this advice section: http://www.nothingbutpadlocks.com/advice/

The lubricant Spec sheet is here:

http://www.nothingbutpadlocks.com/products/padlock-accessories/padlock-lubricant-spray

Answer 3

If you can turn the key but it won't open, then the shackle is what is rusted. Lightly hit the lock base with a hammer while in a position where the shackle can not move. This should get the shackle to release. You can then lightly sand the rust off the shackle and use a light oil to keep it from rusting again, though it will rust again over time. If the key will NOT turn the cylinder, then a penetrating oil may be necessary to free up any *junk* that may have accumulated in the cylinder, key way, or pins. If you can get it freed up, clean the oil out with a degreaser of some sort (goof off will work in a pinch) then lubricate the cylinder, key way, and pins with dry graphite powder. I tend to overdo it in this respect, and slide the key in and out several times until it inserts freely and turns the cylinder with little to no effort. WD40 is NOT something you want to leave on or in the locking mechanism over time. it is a water displacement product and gets used for many things it shouldn't. It will evaporate over time, but before it does, it attracts all sorts of dirt and debris and can CAUSE bigger problems. Whenever it or similar products are used to *free* something up, they should be removed afterword and replaced with the *proper* lubricant. Al

Answer 4

Bolt Cutters.
Sawzall.
Plasma Torch.

Answer 5

no other freing agents about i take it then, try using ordinary oil like engine or gearbox oil, i've got a can of 3 in 1 i use on padlocks to stop em seizing

Answer 6

Try and contain the padlock in a reservoir, ie tin can, and immerse it in coca cola, yes the drink, leave it for a couple of hours to soak, and you will free it.

Answer 7

If you have a car brake fluid is even better than WD40 BUT it takes the paint off so watch where you splash it!
RoyS

Answer 8

so buy another can of wd40 everyone needs it and i get it from poundlound, and its the real stuff not a cheap immitation, you are acting as if wd40 costs a small fortune, or buy a new lock, you get 2 for a pound now!!!!!

Answer 9

Believe it or not but pour a can of coca cola on to it, that will sort it faster than WD40.

Answer 10

try a spray of shock freeze followed by a bit of wd40. failing that just get the bolt cutters