mini U-Lock help needed
 

I did a quick search of the archives and didn't find an answer to this. I've been using the same Krypto mini for 2 or 3 years now, but all of a sudden, about two weeks ago, opening and closing the lock became a huge problem. I am completely perplexed. Yesterday I must have spent a good 10 minutes jiggling the key and lock before it finally opened. I'm ready to toss it and buy a new one, unless there is some fix, like spray WD40 in the lock or something like that? Anyone able to help out?
Thanks in advance!

Try spraying WD40 in there till it just gushes out, to clean the mechanism. Then let it dry out and drip some real oil in it. WD40 really doesn't excel as a lube; it wears off too quick. But it's great for getting things going.
The best lube for locks is supposed to be graphite, but that's a dry lube, and I'm not sure how it would work if applied right after the WD. If anyone has any advice about that, I'd be interested, too.
Lastly, if it's old enough that it has a round key, just replace it before somebody pics it with a Bic pen.

Have you tried using a spare/different key? Maybe your key is old and worn and not turning the lock tumblers the way it used to.

Thanks - I'll try both WD40 and switching keys. (No, it's not one of the Bic pen breakable locks).

don't use graphite. I would just drop some 3 in 1, or motor oil in there if it really needs lube. Most likely the WD will fix it

thats happened to me after leaving my bike locked up when its raining. i just drop some oil in there and open and close it a few times just to get it worked in.

WD40 will work for a day or two. It's not for bikes. Use chain lube on it.

I have had problems with my Krypto locks as well, especially the kind that lock on both sides of the shackle as opposed to the kind that sort of hooks in and then locks on one side. (My yellow beast from hell fuggedaboutit lock specifically). I just sorta fiddled with it and never lubed it, eventually it worked fine again.

My broseph has a new bulldog (also the kind that locks on both ends) and his did that the other day, probably 5th time he unlocked it.

I guess I offer no assistance with solving the problem, just assurance that you are not alone :)

I *luuurve* my orange krypto mini, hasn't choked on me so far. The fuggedaboutit choked like a barely legal teen :)

Why not graphite? It's great for lock mechanisms. 3 in 1 is a vegetable based oil and I wouldn't use it on anything. Liquid based lubes tend to attract dust which is why graphite works so well.

yikes
i like my lock too but this is too much

What is a broseph?

I worked for a place with a locksmith and he swore AGAINST graphite..

A dry spray lubricant is best for lubing the lock.

Just buy an On Guard Mini Bulldog;)

a dood who eats brologna sandwiches

Dry lube only. Wet lubes will attract dirt and dust and make things worse in the long run. WD40 is a bad idea.

Oh well, maybe I should have waited -- I put the WD40 in this morning. Does work great in the short run, at least.

graphite lock lube it the answer

use paint thinner or acetone to get rid of the wd then use graphite lock lube on it it will solve the issue

you can get the lube at the hardware store

use a pencil
http://www.instructables.com/id/How-...e-From-a-Penc/

excellent instructable! haha

...or spend $1 on a tube of graphite that will last for every lock you ever own for the rest of your life....