Identifying a lock and it's mechanism

[roflamo]

Hi there,

I am looking for information about the following lock:


I have been using a similar lock for some time now, but the inner mechanism stopped working in such a way that when I try to open the lock, those two balls inside are not retracting back to their unlock position. They stay loose, so only if I shake the lock they might get into their place and the shackle can be released from the lock.
It made me wonder, how this mechanism works? what is supposed to pull those two little balls inside when I unlock, and what's pushing them back out when it's being locked?
I couldn't figure it only from this picture alone.

Would really appreciate your kind explanation about it.

P.S.
I don't even know if this mechanism has a specific name I could look for.

Thank you!

[Squelchtone]

I'd call that a double ball padlock mechanism

this video explains it pretty well:


This one shows how it works as well:

[roflamo]

Thank you for the quick reply!

It looks like a pretty straightforward mechanism. If so, what could cause the two balls to get stuck when I try to either pull the shackle from the lock or put it back inside?
As long as the key turns, the cylinder will turn as well, right?

[Squelchtone]

Thank you for the quick reply!

It looks like a pretty straightforward mechanism. If so, what could cause the two balls to get stuck when I try to either pull the shackle from the lock or put it back inside?
As long as the key turns, the cylinder will turn as well, right?

dirt, rust, old grease. and make sure you are turning the cylinder enough, usually 90 degrees in order to move the locking cam to the shape that gives the ball bearings enough room to move while you lift up the shackle.

like my uncle always taught me, keep your balls clean.
Squelchtone