door lock problems

[bcarli]

Hi
I thought I remembered reading some past post about this subject but I couldn't find them so I thought I 'd just write one. The lock on my door is getting very difficult to put the key in. I don't want to spray w.d in it, but I wonder about using graphite. Maybe a silicone spray? Any ideas
thanks

[Sea Wolf]

Bill-

It appears there are some quite different opinions on the issue:

Ask the Experts

Joe.

[Sneaks]

I just went through another whole exercise with the C-22 lock, something I've had problems with ever since delivery.

First off, I only use powdered graphite and it's never failed me. I tried silicon spray. It works well but needs "refreshing" far more often.

Comments re: Mobella (Southco) lock.

Usually pressing on the door while turning the key will result in reliable locking/unlocking.

The most common problem, not locking, can be traced to the area behind the striker plate. It must be well routed out so the latchbolt fully extends into the opening. Any hangup and it won't lock. Judicious use of a Dremel type tool will do the trick.

Not so common is a problem with the little black plastic inside locking lever. This is a slip-on device and must be fully inserted at all times or the same symptom (not locking) will occur. Be aware that it can and will slip back out of the "mechanism" and the result is eventually the door will not UNLOCK! Therefore, indiscriminate spraying of lubricant(s) can be counterproductive because it is this plastic lever that provides the sole mechanical linkage between the actual keylock mechanism and the latchbolt mechanism. If disaster strikes (mine wouldn't unlock at a marina) the door is held on with Robertson screws and Home Depot carries Robertson screwdrivers.... Sometimes, as in my case, the plastic lever is malformed and only replacement will solve it. That lever MUST be tight into the lock at all times so check it and check your door handle set screws!

Thanks to Bret and the gang at C-Dory, a Brownie showed up at my door with a new lock and I'm almost over fearfully approaching the Jenny B door, though I still keep a Robertson screwdriver inside the lazarette....

Don

[Sea Wolf]

Don-

Wasn't aware there were those issue with the Mobella lock! Those of us with older boats have a Perko lock instead.

For those of you concerned with security issues, B~C added a 1-1/8" cam lock to back up the OEM one.

We also have replaced the earlier simple wood screws that can be removed by anybody with a screwdriver, with machine screws and nylock nuts on the hinges. Otherwise, one lock, two locks, or many locks on the one side, and the removal of the wood screws on the other side provides easy acces to the cabin.

Joe.

CAM LOCK:

[PatriciaRisher]

Locksmith centers offer lock services whether it is for your home, car or business.

Locksmith Snohomish

[bridma]

Since I have owned the boat (two years), twice I have not been able to unlock the door. My wife said, "give me the key" and unlocked it first time. So the answer is, call the wife. If you don't have one, go get one

Martin.