I want to clean old locks

[VashTSPD]

I just recieved a bunch (21) very old padlocks. I'd say they are at least 20 years old, and, as you can probably guess-they are very grummy.

I was wondering if anybody knew of a good way to clean a mass amount of locks. My first thought was to try soaking them in a bunch of keroscene or Oxyclean, but I thought first I should ask here and give you guys a chance to call my ideas stupid and suggest a better method. or just call my ideas stupid.

I don't want to damage the pins or springs, as I won't be able to replace them without breaking the padlock.

most are wrapped in old brittle electric tape and all have keys, they are old #8 Master Locks of some sort or another, some say Tiawan some say Milwaukee, Wisconsin. if you want pictures or more information, I'd be glad to look for the answer.

[n2oah]

The springs are probably ruined already. Disassemble the locks and soak them in kerosene. Lubricate them well with a teflon spray.

[Kaotik]

Since you may not want to break them open or even damage them for that matter, I might suggest soaking them in a small bucket or cup of good penetrating lubricant for a while, it should loosen up any rust or corrosion built up on or inside them.

Once they are somewhat free of contaminates, you will then be able to check the pins and springs for damage and see if they are still usable.

That's what I would do.

[HeadHunterCEO]

put them in a bucket of wd40 and duct tape a 110v "personal Massager " to the side of the bucket

[Octillion]

I'd submerge them in acetone first, to dissolve and take away a lot of grease, gunk, tape residue, paint, etc. Depending on how dirty they are, probably two baths, then move on to individually clean each lock.