Auto Jigglers

[dwkbb]

I know that auto entry techniques are usually not discussed in open forums, so I will understand if no one wants to answer this question. I am just wondering if lubrication is commonly needed when using auto jigglers since outer door locks may be used infrequently if the vehicle is equipped with power locks.

[rayman452]

Although your right about not being discussed, I believe what you would find by looking at other random threads is that you use graphite spray to lubercate locks. For a car, you would ahve to take care of the flap. DO not attempt this on a car lock, for there is a great chance of dammage when you use jigglerse if you dont know how to use them. Only practice on car locks which have been stipped out.

[master in training]

i agree with rayman, if you dont knwo what you're doing, dont attempt to use the jigglers, especially not on your car, at least get an old lock from a scrap dealer or something.

as for the lubrication thing, with the dust cover i would imagine locks stayed fairly well lubricated from the factory inside, even if they are not used, locks should be alright to use at any time, if the battery fails, the owner has to be able to use the key.

car opening isnt usually discussed in open forums, but at a guess i would say this is not too bad since its not "how do i use jigglers", it is simply asking if the lock needs to be lubricated, so someone may help you. if in doubt, use graphite! just please dont use WD40......

[dwkbb]

Thanks for the replies. I thought I might be treading on thin ice by asking, but I thought it would be OK since I wasn't asking "How to". I appreciate the information.

[HeadHunterCEO]

car locks fall victim to the fact that the wafers are brass and the lock body being pop steel more often than dirt and grime.

they wafers oxidize and stick

more often on repo cars that have been sitting unused fo r a year or two than a driven car

wd40 is effective

[dwkbb]

Thanks Headhunter. I had a feeling that wafers would be sticky after a few years. Especially, if rarely used. I've found this true with padlocks that I have run across. A little lubrication with WD40 or silicone spray makes quite a difference.

[Retrovertigo]

Type of Lube really depends on where you live.. I argue with people about this all the time... I live in the Pacific Northwest and graphite is next to usless here because the rain/humidity. If your gonna lube use a teflon based lubricant like tri-flow.

[CaptHook]

as for the lubrication thing, with the dust cover i would imagine locks stayed fairly well lubricated from the factory inside, even if they are not used, locks should be alright to use at any time, if the battery fails, the owner has to be able to use the key.

False. As Headhunter stated, auto locks are problematic in various ways.
Never use graphite in an auto lock, always go for a spray lube of your liking.
Chuck

[dwkbb]

Silicone seems to work well. WD40 does also, but there is more of an odor. I know that there are varying opinions about after effects such as attracting debris and gumming up. I haven't had enough experience with either to have my own opinion of one product over the other. I just know that, at least for freeing up the lock, both seem to work well. As far as any lock exposed to extremes of temperature and humidity, lubrication would seem to be necessary, or at least very helpful, at some point in time.

[HeadHunterCEO]

Type of Lube really depends on where you live.. I argue with people about this all the * time... I live in the Pacific Northwest and graphite is next to usless here because the rain/humidity. If your gonna lube use a teflon based lubricant like tri-flow.

yup

i oly use wd40 to get the lock turning
wd40 has little to no staying power.
i-flow is also what i use for auto locks longterm

[dwkbb]

Thanks again Headhunter. I appreciate your help.

[Mad Mick]

Another point about auto locks. Although there is a dust cover fitted, this doesn't mean that moisture/dirt is any less likely to be present in an auto lock, than a residential lock. When it rains, dust and debris (as well as moisture) will find it's way past the door sill weather strips and into the door cavity. Ever looked at a vehicle in the morning, when it's covered in dew? This same moisture will be in the locks.

So, you are still thinking about the dust etc.
Q. What happens when the heater/AC is switched on?
A. A positive pressure is created inside the vehicle, resulting in air being expelled through every possible hole, however tiny. This air flow will also carry dust particles with it, (such as the dust inside the door cavity) and the factory grease inside an automotive lock is the ideal substance for the dust to stick to.

To increase the chances of a successful opening, the lock should always be flushed prior to reaching for a pick. WD40 is fine for this, however, one of the suggested lubricants should be used afterwards.