old american 50 padlock

[femurat]

I just got this old padlock, it's full of sand, grit and oil. I picked it after loosening a stuck wafer, it was not difficult but now there's black and sticky sand everywhere.
I'd like to clean the inside, picking it felt like sanding the pick. I think it's possible to disassemble it since there's a screw in the bottom of the shackle hole. I sprayed some penetrating oil and unscrewed it. Nothing happens... any idea on how to remove the core? Should I close the shackle? Look for a retaining wafer?

Thanks

[Squelchtone]

Hi femurat,

Here's an old post for an American H10 padlock showing parts diagram. Once the screw is removed, now, hit side of padlock on hard surface, so retaining pin can drop out of groove in cylinder.

http://www.lockpicking101.com/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=55547#p402982

Happy cleaning!
Squelchtone

[femurat]

Thanks Squelchy, that's a great explanation and diagram. I'll keep you updated.

Have a nice one

[Raymond]

Absolute worst case scenario: retaining pin is stuck for good. A very small drill bit (3/64") angled through the side of the keyway can hit the end of the pin. The pin can then be pushed or tapped back to release the plug. After removing the plug, the pin can be pushed back out into the plug space and removed for further cleaning. Replace the pin from the plug space. You will probably never even notice the hole afterward.

[femurat]

Hey Raymond,

the pin is stuck I'll let it soak in penetrating oil overnight. If it doesn't work I'll try your trick. Thanks for the suggestion.

Cheers