winds10

Hi,

I just started commuting couple weeks ago and I've been using an OnGuard Bulldog Mini u-lock, which came with a cable. This morning I inserted my key and unlocked the u-lock, and when I was trying to lock it, the key wouldn't turn at all. The key is just stuck in the lock cylinder and I can't pull it out and I can't turn it. I called OnGuard and spoke to a support person, but he didn't know what to do. He said he'd call me back, but hasn't yet called. It's been about four hours since that conversation.

So I'm just trying to find out if anyone out there has any ideas about what to do. I don't want to force th key, because I'm afraid I'm just going to end up braking it off the handle. If anyone has a good advice, please let me know! Thanks.

-Hugh

kf5nd

try squirting oil or WD-40 into the lock, alongside the key, then gently tap and wiggle the key.

Cyclist0383

This is a common problem with Onguard locks. Make sure the key is in as far as it will go and whack the lock with a heavy object such as a hammer and turn the key. This was the official word from the Todson (the US distributor of Onguard locks) site.

EDIT: Todson has made it so you now need to register and confirm your account via an email in order to access information about the service of the products they sell. What a horrible idea!

2_i 

Your post does not make it clear whether your concern is just about the lock or whether the lock has at this point immobilized your bike. In the last case, if the suggested remedies did not work, you could call a locksmith.

gholt

Locksmiths sell a spray lubricant that is for the lock tumblers that may loosen up the lock cylindar. Try that.

winds10

So I gave the hammer method a try, but didn't work. I called OnGuard again and they're sending me only the lock cylinder with a new set of keys. Meanwhile, I just have to resort to a padlock and cable to secure my bike. Thanks for the suggestions.

kevlarcupid

I've had a lot of trouble with my OnGuard U. It does the same thing, both on lock and unlock. It's a PITA, and I'm actually switching back over to a Kryptonite U because of it.

BootsyC

I had the same issue with an old (4 years) OnGuard lock. I took it in to my LBS and asked about it...it turns out dirt/grime gets in the cylinder and it causes the lock to lock-up. The only way they knew about to fix it was to flush the cylinder with degreaser then pack it with grease again. It turns out to be more practical to just buy a new lock.

axelfox

Looks like I'm getting a Kryptonite.

Raiyn

I'm glad I stayed a Kryptonite customer.

J B Bell

I've had a bit of stickiness with my OnGuard Pitbull Mini. Every time so far, it's been down to the shackle's not being fully inserted into the . . . er, straight bit where the key goes.

Cyclist0383

FWIW, between my wife, a friend, and me we've had FOUR Onguard locks freeze up to the point where they couldn't be used anymore. We haven't had a single problem with either Kryptonite or Abus locks.