Lock storage

[duramaxdavid]

Does it hurt to store locks with the keys in them?

[Beyond]

Does it hurt to store locks with the keys in them?

Well, technically, you're putting more stress on the springs by doing that but you're also keeping the lock free of dirt and grime by effectively blocking it from getting in in the first place.

So, I'd say no. Then again, I'm sure other people have input, perhaps better input.

[selim]

I've often thought the same thing. I have over a thousand new cylinder's at work. They come from the factory with the key's in them,but they are also packed in little plastic bag's. Dirt,and grime can't get in the bags,so do they keep the key's in the cylinder?
Good question.
Tom

[bumber]

puts stress on the springs...it may take a LONG time to ruin them though.

[Eyes_Only]

most of my high security locks I keep with keys in them. That way I won't easily lose those hard to get keys.

[Abus]

I probably store at least 1/4 with the key in. Many of the others I keep with the key wired to the lock.

I think that if you consider the performance of the average pin spring, it probably will take many lifetimes to wear out with the key in. Cycling a muddy key in and out of a outdoor lock has to be many orders of magnitude rougher.

Good material springs should take a set anyway in this sort of application, IMHO.

[selim]

I think your right,spring's are made very good now a day's.

I alway's wunderd what IMHO stould for,who want's to tell me??

[Abus]

Sorry, it means: In My Humble Opinion

In other words, its not really something that I feel I can be certain about, but I have a strong feeling that (in this case) the spring metallurgy and design is such on most decent locks that having the key in place will not cause them to take a set.

[vrocco]

I alway's wunderd what IMHO stould for,who want's to tell me??

IMHO = In My Humble Opinion

[eurolock fan]

I never leave the keys in my locks except for a tubular lock on my safe but the key doesn't compress the springs unless I'm turning the key.

[bumber]

I alway's wunderd what IMHO stould for,who want's to tell me??

IMHO = In My Humble Opinion

Alwways thought it was In My Honest Opinion....could be either I suppose

[WOT]

Does the same apply to padlocks then? The shackle release spring is compressed whenever it's locked.

[bumber]

in theory, ya it puts stress on it/them, but the way stuff is made these days it would take years and years to mess it up...dont really worry about them though, leaving them outside over night is worse then leaving the keys in them forever(well kinda )

[fjardeson]

I don't ever leave keys in my locks when storing them - with two exceptions:

1) Abloy Disc - no springs to hurt
2) Assa Desmo - same reason! What a jewel of a lock!

[WOT]

I suppose you better store your collectible vehicle on jack stands so you don't weaken the suspension springs.