Tension tools for padlocks?

[Foogoo]

What do you guys use for tension in padlock locks and similar locks with smaller keyways? Homemade or bought...

[zeke79]

I use standard southord tension wrenches and bend them and trim them as needed. Also when I can find the right width(the same as the std southord) windshield wiper strips i use those to make my own with a peterson u bend it tool.

[Hak]

For smaller keyways where a conventional tension wrench wouldnt fit, i use the flat part of a hair pin. Just break the hair pin in half, then bend the flat part into a L shape. Works great, and hair pins are very easy to find and they cost about maybe $2 for a pack of like 20.

[Eagerpicker]

For really, really small keyways I use the special turning tools as may be seen at www.multipick-service.com, under "Picksets and accessories and lever picks", then "Tension tools and accessories", then the second page: the TEN2-TEN5 tools.[/img]

[mcm757207]

I have this really annoying cheap padlock that a friend gave me (don't know the brand, there is no writing anywhere on it), but the keyway is so small I can barely fit a standard pick in it. I've tried using a small half diamond to apply tension and rake back and forth at the same time, but it just doesn't want to open.

[Eagerpicker]

This is where your slimline picks may come in handy. LAB picks even more so perhaps, as they have the thinnest tangs possible and small pick ends too.

[mcm757207]

Yeah, I have a slimline set and i've tried using it but it still won't fit with the tension wrench

[randmguy]

You might want to try one of raimundo's Bogata picks. I've had great success with them on smaller keyways...Like the ones on the back of the Master combination locks and those tiny little Brinks brass padlocks.

[Eagerpicker]

Perhaps it works if you file down a spare torque tool to fit in the keyway?

[reg]

I have some tension tools made from windscreen wiper blades - among them two where I've used the part that was made for fixing the blades inside the windscreen wiper, where the blade is thinned to be clamped - just cut off the short wider part at the end, bend it - add some finishing touches (sand it off) and you got another great tool for those annoyingly small keyways.

[S3rratedSp00L]

Homemade or modified tension tools are my preference.

For small padlocks, and everything else lately I have been using twist-flex style wrenches made from hair pins. Just be sure to bring a small screwdriver to turn the plug if it demands more torque. These tiny twist-flex style wrenches worke excellent in the top of the keyway! I recommend them for american lock brand padlocks, as well as deadbolts! With deadbolts you usually don't need to turn with a screwdriver, just be careful... These are so cheap, useful and easy to make that I would recommend them for an emergency kit and for general use. Even if you like other tension tools or like to buy them give hairpins a try..

hehe the unbent end doubles as a wafer pick.

I also recommend brass rod, and wiper inserts to make excellent tools. Since they are custom, find the size that you think is right and give it a try! Don't underestimate alternate placements for your tension tool! Put it wherever it fits best and you can get to the keyway in the manner that you want to!

....and for wider wrenches, I find that tapering the business end works really well for a custom tool that fits many locks well. (I am unsure who originally had or posted that idea, but whoever you are, thanks again!)

Most important! If it doesn't fit the way you like, then make it fit!

[Mad Mick]

(I am unsure who originally had or posted that idea, but whoever you are, thanks again!)

I think it was Chucklz...
Slightly roughing the edges with 120 grit sandpaper helps to keep the wrench in the keyway too.