Do you have a stuck combination lock? While combination locks are an effective security measure, they can become jammed. A stuck combination lock may cause the dials on the product to become difficult to adjust.
The following four methods will help to fix your stuck combination lock:
- Apply a Lock Lubricant
- Remove Rust and Corrosion
- Defrost Combination Lock
- Cut Off Combination Lock
While a stuck combination lock can be frustrating, there are several things you can do to fix it. Keep reading further to learn how to unjam your combination lock and other maintenance to prevent future issues.
Why Would a Combination Lock Become Jammed?
Combination locks are a convenient option that doesn’t require a key. However, the added dials of the combination lock require maintenance to prevent it from sticking. If you have a combination lock, there are a few reasons it’s jammed.
A combination lock becomes stuck most commonly because of the weather elements. If you use a combination lock not designed for outdoor usage, you will quickly notice its performance starting to suffer.
Indoor combination locks don’t have the proper weather seals to keep water from entering the lock body. As rust develops on the internal components of the padlock, it will become harder to turn and adjust.
Along with water, if you drop your combination lock on the ground, it can accumulate dirt inside the internal components. Dirt can cause the combination dials to turn roughly and affect their performance.
How to Fix a Stuck Combination Lock
If you have a combination lock that’s stuck closed, there are several things you can do to fix it. While reading the methods below, you should attempt each before moving on to the next option for your lock.
Apply a Lock Lubricant
When you have a stuck lock, the first thing you should do is apply a lock lubricant. When a combination lock operates roughly, the most common reason is a lack of lubrication within the lock body.
A lubricant will allow the gears and components to glide for the combination lock effortlessly. When spraying a lock lubricant, apply it to all lock components, from the dials to the shackle’s housing.
Remove Rust and Corrosion
If you left your combination lock outside, it might have developed rust and corrosion, affecting its useability. One of the most effective ways to remove rust is by applying a lubricant like WD-40 and striking the lock lightly with a hammer.
The lubricant helps to break up the pieces of rust, and the hammer helps to dislodge them from the surfaces. After shaking the lock, you may notice pieces of rust fall off, and the shiny metal surface reveals itself again.
Defrost Combination Lock
Did a recent drop in temperatures leave your combination lock jammed? If you live in an area with a cold climate, the temperatures may freeze the lock’s components. When a combination lock develops frost, it can impede its functionality.
Fortunately, you can restore its performance by defrosting the combination lock. Several de-icing products can remove the ice on your lock. After using these products, you can check to see if your combination lock works again.
Cut Off Combination Lock
When the previous three methods don’t work, your last option is to cut off the stuck combination lock. Cutting off the lock will free your belongings and allow you to use a better padlock option in the future.
There are numerous ways to cut a lock, but the most common option is a pair of bolt cutters. With the bolt cutters, you can cut the shackle of the stuck combination lock and remove it from the hasp.
The Best Lock Lubricants For a Stuck Combination Lock
When applying a lock lubricant to your stuck combination lock, it’s important to pick the right type of lubricant. There are several variations of lock lubricants, with the most common options being the following:
- Oil Lubricant
- Grease Lubricant
- Dry Lubricant
- Penetrating Lubricant
In the case of a stuck lock, we recommend a penetrating lubricant like WD-40. The formula provides temporary lubrication and breaks down corrosion. After spraying this in your stuck lock, you should wait a few minutes and then attempt to open it.
Along with fixing a stuck combination lock, you should apply lock lubricant as a maintenance measure for your locks. Serious Home Security created a breakdown of the best lock lubricants that you can use for your padlocks.
Can You Reset a Lock If You Forget the Combination
When you forget your lock’s combination, you will likely be unable to open it easily. The lock manufacturers make resetting a combination lock difficult to maintain the security of their products.
However, if your lock has a serial number, you may be able to request a combination by contacting the manufacturer. For large manufacturers like Master Lock, you can bring your lock to a distributor to open the product.
If your lock is attached to something, the retailer won’t be able to assist you due to security protocols. When you can’t access your combination lock and don’t have a serial number, your only option is to purchase a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you have a jammed Master Combination Lock, you can unjam it with a penetrating lubricant and hammer. By greasing the lock’s internal components, you can free up the jammed combination lock. If the lock still doesn’t open, lightly hit it with a hammer to loosen the shackle’s housing.
If you have a Master Lock that doesn’t open, you can fix the problem using a lock lubricant product. Sometimes, a lock won’t open if there is a lot of corrosion or dirt inside the lock body. Additionally, you can visit your local Master Lock distributor and see if they can solve the problem with your product.
Combination locks are a convenient option that you can operate without a designated key. Without a keyway, these locks also prevent lockpicking and help keep your items safe. ABUS offers the most secure combination lock option that offers superior security compared to Master Lock products.
Conclusion
If your combination lock becomes stuck, don’t worry, and utilize the methods featured in this article. While these methods may not allow your combination lock to work normally long-term, they will help you release the shackle to access your items.
Do you have a combination lock that’s stuck? Let us know if these methods worked to fix your lock!