Steering lock not unlocking.

**martybabe** · 4th August 2008, 19:37

I've had this prob a few times on bikes left out in the rain. Pull back the cover on the barrel, squirt wd40 in, insert and extract key a few times, turn key gently. Job done for sure. unless it has been tampered with.

**paturoa** · 4th August 2008, 19:41

Originally Posted by The Stranger

Try graphite powder. Doesn't attract dust and grit.

Graphite power probably isn't a good idea with the electrics.

I have the same problem with my SV. I give it a liberal squirt of WD40/CRC and work the key several times and then a couple of drops of oil.

This lasts about 6 months and then starts to get "sticky" again.

**jrandom** · 4th August 2008, 19:48

I had that issue with the Snail. Had to wiggle the key around shitloads to get anything to happen.

Coincidentally, I then managed to lose the only key I had for it. I called the locksmiths out for a replacement key. They took the opportunity to disassemble the ignition barrel and clean it out.

It was seriously full of crud, and after a cleaning and lubing everything worked perfectly.

Get your ignition barrel cleaned and lubed.

**Trudes** · 4th August 2008, 19:55

Originally Posted by R6_kid

I have a similar problem with my GSXR, I find pulling on the 'lower' bar, the one closest to the bike when locked, and then turning the key seems to do the trick. Relieves the pressure on the lock and makes the mechanism easier to turn.

+2

The Hornet also has issues with turning the key in the ignition when not on lock also.... had it replaced under warranty, but still is shitty as. We have graphite in a squeezer thing if you want to borrow some.

**cs363** · 4th August 2008, 19:56

Squirt a small amount of dielectric grease down the key hole- magic stuff, non conductive so no problem with the electrics. Permatex used to make a handy little tube of it, not sure if they still do.
Pretty sure Sully could lay his hands on some.
The tip that R6Kid gave regarding pulling on the bar slightly is an oldie and a goodie

**=cJ=** · 4th August 2008, 20:16

+1 to the WD40.

Worked a treat for me

:

**Number One** · 4th August 2008, 20:34

Thanks everyone

I appreciate the helpful hints in light of what is likely to have been a silly question with a very simple fix.

**munterk6** · 4th August 2008, 21:38

I had a key once

**Swoop** · 4th August 2008, 21:40

Originally Posted by FJRider

CRC repel's water but is not a lube...for long, it evaporates to quickly.

CRC has nice amounts of solvent... Not only does it evaporate but it also attacks plastics, especially softer plastics found on wiring.

Inox is better.

**Pussy** · 4th August 2008, 21:50

Originally Posted by Swoop

CRC has nice amounts of solvent... Not only does it evaporate but it also attacks plastics, especially softer plastics found on wiring.

Inox is better.

+1 ! Inox is good shit