lockset freezing

[MESSMAKER]

My tractor lives outside. I am having trouble with the lock set freezing. It keeps the key out so I can't start it till I apply heat. I need to cover it with something that keeps out the water. What do you guys use? The tractor is a Bobcat ct225.

 

[redharley]

have had that problem here in Pa. every winter.Several ways we have done, Heat your key,apply a wax or grease to key slot [will trap dirt in key slot if not wiped off be fore key is stuck in]'make a rubber cover out of old inner tube,buy and wire up a new switch with weather proff cover[some heavy equipment comes with these got one at a john deere dozer dealer for on of our farm tractor once.If your not to worried about someone stealiing it you could install a toggle type switch 3 position with a rubber boot.lastly take the key tumbler out of your switch and use a screwdriver to start and operate the switch.

 

[Toyboy]

Spray some WD 40 into it after it's thawed to drive the moisture out

 

[klausb]

Spray some WD 40 into it after it's thawed to drive the moisture out

This.

 

[MikeyB]

My tractor lives outside. I am having trouble with the lock set freezing. It keeps the key out so I can't start it till I apply heat. I need to cover it with something that keeps out the water. What do you guys use? The tractor is a Bobcat ct225.

Do you have Lowes or HD nearby? If so, I would peruse the fastener section looking in the slide out drawers with the odd ball items. I remember seeing a few screw/bolt covers that might work. If not, how about a waterproof cover for a cigarette lighter plug, hydraulic coupler cover/plug, etc.

HTH

 

[JJZ 109]

Spray some WD 40 into it after it's thawed to drive the moisture out

Just did this to a 1998 Cadillac. Good advice.

 

[MESSMAKER]

I will try the wd-40 for now. I think a waterproof cover is the answer, but I will have to find one or create one.

 

[rd_macgregor]

A waterproof cover would work best.
If the keyset round base sticks out from the surface (rather than being inset), you could pop a condom over it.
BOB

 

[Soundguy]

silicone spray will help shed the water too.

soundguy

 

[ray66v]

I have seen people use a tennis ball with one side split like a banana, then push it over the door knob.

I guess it works for a waterproof cover in a pinch.

In the mean time, if you heat it gently with a torch for a few minutes, you will drive out all the water.

I always give my locks a liberal dose of spray graphite in the fall.

IMO graphite is better because, it can't freeze, and won't evaporate like WD40, and it won't contaminate painted surfaces like silicone does.

 

[Soundguy]

i have some lock lube in a lil pointy tube.... it's graphite in a silicone base... go figure..

soundguy

 

[ray66v]

i have some lock lube in a lil pointy tube.... it's graphite in a silicone base... go figure..

soundguy

What's your point?

 

[tommu56]

Key switch protective cover - ACE ELECTRONICS Houston, Texas

or

Weatherproof Key Switch Cover

or even

if you have to

but I have used a magnet and a plastic bag
just put the magnet in the bag and stick it above the switch with the bag hanging over the switch it should keep 90 of the rain out.

tom

 

[Soundguy]

What's your point?

i was just surprised they mixed them that's all. I've seen plenty of dry or greaseless graphite lubes ..... a bit touchy are we?

soundguy

 

[ray66v]

i was just surprised they mixed them that's all. I've seen plenty of dry or greaseless graphite lubes ..... a bit touchy are we?

soundguy

No not at all, I was trying to understand an incoherent post.

 

[Soundguy]

No not at all, I was trying to understand an incoherent post.

wow... i thought there was plenty of context.

OOOOOkay.. I see an early christmas present to myself coming on.

(click) (Click) (click)

Ahhh.... better than alka seltzer..


soundguy

 

[ray66v]

I guess you won't discuss it, because you need to be right.

Clearly your still mad from the last time. Anyone who reads your posts can see that.

So, I'll let it go.

And, I will let you get the last word in. I can see that is important to you.

Have a nice Christmas.