How to Fix a Combo Lock
Combination locks offer the convenience, since there's no key to carry around and, perhaps, to forget or lose. However, combination locks also have more moving parts than keyed locks, because of their dials. Your combo lock may need troubleshooting if it gets frozen, dirty or the dial gets stuck. Fix your lock by removing dust from the inside of it, lubricating it and turning the dial many times.
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Use high-pressure air from a can of dust remover to remove dust from the dial and shackle areas and to clean your lock. Chemicals and airborne dust particles can settle inside of your combo lock over time. This creates friction in the delicate locking components and lowers your lock's performance.
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Put lubricant on the shackle and dial parts if your lock freezes up in the winter. Apply the lubricant sparingly -- you need just a few drops. Let the lubricant sink far down into the lock. Knock the lock gently against a table to spread the fluid throughout the lock and loosen up any frozen or stuck parts.
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Turn the dial of the lock many times to distribute the lubricant after applying it. Check the dial or dials as well as the lock and shackle and wipe any extra lubricant from them. Allow the lock to air dry. The lock is ready for use once it is dry.
References
Warnings
- Do not use lubricants that contain dry graphite or silicone.
Writer Bio
Percila Jackson has been a writer since 2008. She primarily writes computer, electronics, legal and tax articles for various websites. Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from California State University, Long Beach.
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