Pop out switch to lube or not?

[Twocollies]

What can be used to lube the pop out switch that has a lot of drag when using the key. I worked with Graffite in the past. To gritty. Don't really want to use WD-40 that seems to make pot metal expand. looking for any alternative solutions

[Marshall V. Daut]

Would a special lock spray lube work? Hardware stores sell it. I don't know what's in it. Might be a good idea to read the label to see if there's anything in it that could adversely affect pot metal.
Marshall

[Tom Wesenberg]

I've never had a problem using ATF, but often hear don't do it. I put ATF on the key and insert it several times so I know the pins and cylinder have some lube.

[MikeK]

Amazon, $6

[Kurt in NJ]

Over 30 years after restoration mine was getting stiff to turn, lubricant helped for another year, then I broke the key, took it apart, found that either the cylinder had swelled up some or the housing had shrunk some, filed the cylinder to a good fit
I also installed the repro plated cover and cylinder face, the repro face needed some careful filing to match it to the opening so the key would fit, now it looks pretty and works perfectly
All I used for lube in the cylinder is graphite, the lock pin got some synthetic brake grease

[Mike Peters]

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Originally Posted by Kurt in NJ

Over 30 years after restoration mine was getting stiff to turn, lubricant helped for another year, then I broke the key, took it apart, found that either the cylinder had swelled up some or the housing had shrunk some, filed the cylinder to a good fit
I also installed the repro plated cover and cylinder face, the repro face needed some careful filing to match it to the opening so the key would fit, now it looks pretty and works perfectly
All I used for lube in the cylinder is graphite, the lock pin got some synthetic brake grease

got the same problem with mine and will do what you described. Thanks.

[leo]

I spoke to someone who restores these (Mr. Crabtree) comes to mind and he said to use nothing but Lock-Ease which is a graphited lock fluid.

[Ray64]

Put a small amount in the front of key hole and blow it in with air hose on low volume Works like a charm.

[Kurt in NJ]

Graphite in the tumbler area, a little grease (I used brake grease) in the lock eccentric and the grooves where the locking tab slides,

If you blow graphite in with air it is possible to get graphite on the contacts--- probably not good for a low resistance contact--- it used to come in a little can that would just puff a little into a lock

[Marvin/TN]

I would not use silicone anywhere around my car or shop.

[barry022]

Originally Posted by Marvin/TN

I would not use silicone anywhere around my car or shop.

Is that because of the potential for future paint adhesion issues? Otherwise, silicone is great lubricant when used correctly.

[BILL WILLIAMSON]

My EXERCISE MACHINE never needs LUBING---LOL
Bill Lazy