One area often overlooked for RV maintenance–and pretty much every RV has one or more to overlook–are locks. Door locks, compartment locks, locks on hitches, locks on toolboxes. Where’s Dr. Suess when you need him? He’s probably stuck in a locked compartment . . .
In your grandpappy’s day, the lubricant of choice of locks was graphite powder. Of course, he probably swore by horse liniment for all that ailed you, too. But even among locksmiths, there’s plenty of controversy over what’s best to use to lubricate those security devices. But lock yourself out of your motorhome, or can’t get the padlock loose from your spare tire carrier while freeway traffic whizzes by, you’ll be sorry you ignored the situation.
One thing is clear: Graphite is out. This powdery stuff can absorb moisture and gum up the lockworks. So what’s that leave? The schools divide: Some say, “Shoot it with WD-40!” Others say, “Take the hangups away with gun oil!” What’s a feller to do? Well, lacking any direct information from your lock manufacturer, a common thread seems to emerge from the profession: Teflon. But how do you get teflon in a lock? Well, there are some spray lubricants with added teflon. Our favorite locksmith says that teflon is less attractive to dirt, lasts longer, and just generally keeps lock mechanisms happier.
When shopping for teflon lube, look for a can with a long nose nozzle that allows you to insert the nozzle assembly in the lock and give it a BRIEF squirt. Better to UNDER lube than over lube. Wipe off any excess, put your key in the lock, and work it back and forth several times.
Consider adding lock lubrication to your 6-month RV maintenance routine.
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