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Am I Do ?
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 9:01 am
by Sandun
Some drop of oil am I put in to the ignition switch (key switch) ? MM 1000 car
Re: Am I Do ?
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 9:56 am
by Neil MG
It won't do any harm, but if it is a bit stiff it would be better to remove the barrel (now you will find that very easy with the key!) and use a little grease.
Re: Am I Do ?
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 1:02 pm
by rayofleamington
In uk, it is common to use WD40 (very light oil / cleaner in spray can).
Some of the effect is to clean away dirt and some effect is to lubricate.
Putting grease in a lock could increase the amount of dirt retention and I would worry about it sticking later on.
Re: Am I Do ?
Posted: Mon Jan 30, 2012 6:28 pm
by MarkyB
Graphite is the best thing for any lock, scribble on the business end of the key with the softest Black pencil you can lay your hands on.
Re: Am I Do ?
Posted: Tue Jan 31, 2012 9:00 pm
by Neil MG
Have to disagree entirely with WD40. After it evaporates it leaves a waxy residue. It is the absolute curse of the locksmith:
http://www.clapham-locksmiths.co.uk/blog/tag/wd-40/
The locks were originally assembled with red grease. It seems today that synthetic oil and grease is recommended. And yes definitely graphite:
http://www.lockpicks.com/lubricants_1.aspx
It should be noted that there is a significant difference between greasing the lock barrel on assembly and putting grease down the key slot, which is definitely not recommended.
Re: Am I Do ?
Posted: Wed Feb 01, 2012 10:21 pm
by JOWETTJAVELIN
DO NOT use WD40 for switches/electrical connections - I can assure you it will wreak havoc with the contacts.
Electrical connections should not be oiled full stop.
For the ignition barrel however a very light smear of light oil such as 3 in 1 should do the job nicely. Use sparingly!
Re: Am I Do ?
Posted: Fri Feb 10, 2012 5:03 pm
by bmcecosse
WD40 has served my contacts and locks very well for many many years.......