I'm having a big problem with my doors

[gadget73]

Sounds like folks need to do some lock system maintenance. Unfortunately most of this really ought to be done before freezing weather hits, otherwise it might be too late. What I usually do is flush all of the latches, lock cylinders, and any other moving parts out wth wd40 to get rid of any water. Once that dries off, a dose of white lithium grease in the latch and a small dose at the various moving points to keep things free usually does the job. You can do the same thing with the lock solenoid if its not seized. Get any water out of it, then lube it with grease. If the boot is torn, you can't keep the water out though so its really time to replace the thing if the boot is shredded.

[91grandmarquis]

It appears that's what it was.

I gave in and threw 50 bucks at a guy from Diamond towing to use a slim-jim on it.

The damned thing was so frozen that the front locks wouldn't budge. Eventually he got me in through the rear door. As an unintended (but pleasing) side effect, my mother is now convinced that I should have the underground parking spot whenever it's below zero. Maybe I'll finally get the other 4 plugs changed

Police used to do that for free... The slim jim that is.

[86VickyLX]

Sounds like folks need to do some lock system maintenance. Unfortunately most of this really ought to be done before freezing weather hits, otherwise it might be too late. What I usually do is flush all of the latches, lock cylinders, and any other moving parts out wth wd40 to get rid of any water. Once that dries off, a dose of white lithium grease in the latch and a small dose at the various moving points to keep things free usually does the job. You can do the same thing with the lock solenoid if its not seized. Get any water out of it, then lube it with grease. If the boot is torn, you can't keep the water out though so its really time to replace the thing if the boot is shredded.

Do they actually sell the boots by themselves?

[Glen]

I just don't shut the door all the way, I just go to the first click. It opens a lot easier. Last year I had to get in the back and clime over the seat. I park in my driveway so I don't lock it anyway.

[johnunit]

Sounds like folks need to do some lock system maintenance. Unfortunately most of this really ought to be done before freezing weather hits, otherwise it might be too late. What I usually do is flush all of the latches, lock cylinders, and any other moving parts out wth wd40 to get rid of any water. Once that dries off, a dose of white lithium grease in the latch and a small dose at the various moving points to keep things free usually does the job. You can do the same thing with the lock solenoid if its not seized. Get any water out of it, then lube it with grease. If the boot is torn, you can't keep the water out though so its really time to replace the thing if the boot is shredded.

Thanks. For now I'm parking it in the garage, and I'm gonna pick up some white lithium grease and tear into the door panels sometime this week. Is there anywhere the lithium stuff would be a bad idea to use?

[gadget73]

Do they actually sell the boots by themselves?

Not that I'm aware of, but that would be nice. I've got at least 2 good lock motors with no boots here. Useless without the condom though, they'd be shot in a month.

[mercman1951]

Not that I'm aware of, but that would be nice. I've got at least 2 good lock motors with no boots here. Useless without the condom though, they'd be shot in a month.

I think you just found your solution. A condom with zip-ties on each end.

[gadget73]

doubt that would be durable enough, unless your junk needs a *lot* heavier duty protection than is available around here. I did try fingers from a rubber glove once. Worked for about 2 days before tearing.

[GM_Guy]

So is the root of the problem moisture freezing in the solenoid when the seal wears out? or do they just go bad, i know mine is bad because it started last winter and no longer worked over summer.

In my case yes, I've opened up all my failed solenoids, and each has been a corroded mess of rusty mud inside. I'm amazed they work as long as they do in that state before failing.

my 85 merc however is differnent tho. the lock cylinder seems to keep icing up.

Illuminated entry? Make an electric tape flap to cover the key hole and seal the edges. What I found on mine is that the illuminated entry face collects water. The only place for it to drain is to seep into the lock cylinder, which in turn seeps out the back of the lock cylinder, runs down the lock rods, and usually straight to the lock solenoid, and anywhere else. And then _everything_ is frozen.
I have dodged the frozen locks since I've started putting the flap on late in the fall.

Alex.

[pantera77]

Illuminated entry? Make an electric tape flap to cover the key hole and seal the edges. What I found on mine is that the illuminated entry face collects water. The only place for it to drain is to seep into the lock cylinder, which in turn seeps out the back of the lock cylinder, runs down the lock rods, and usually straight to the lock solenoid, and anywhere else. And then _everything_ is frozen.
I have dodged the frozen locks since I've started putting the flap on late in the fall.

Alex.

I've had snow and ice sit in the recessed area against the lock face and freeze solid, making it imposable to get my key in. I may just have to try that.

[Ringting]

I plan to go to a couple of wreckers this weekend. Do you want me looking for specific parts? If so help me understand what is needed.


It is going to drop down to 60 F / 16 C, but do not worry I will bundle up and wear gloves. (After growing tired of two official languages and the weather, I moved to a warm climate.)
Take care

[dgouge773]

I got my doors opened today finally. The driver's side door was unlocked but the rod came off the handle so I couldn't get in. I thought the passenger side did the same thing but I called my uncle to see if he can use a slim jim on my back doors, and he said to just cover the lock with tape and pour boiling water over it and the rest of the door and keep locking and unlocking the door. I tried that and after a couple of minutes the door lock loosened up and the handle worked and opened up. Now I just have to see what I can do to prevent this later on.

[gadget73]

It is going to drop down to 60 F / 16 C, but do not worry I will bundle up and wear gloves. (After growing tired of two official languages and the weather, I moved to a warm climate.)
Take care

recovering Canadian, eh?

[Ringting]

Yes I would be one. Love the beer, wide open spaces, and open mindedness. Do not understand those with high expectations while not wishing to contribute.