ZPmadA

I've got a fairly simple question. Is there a way to lubricate keys, and should we do this? My ignition can feel a little sticky sometimes. It can also be difficult to get the key in the doors and hatch but mostly when its cold out. Would a drop of oil on the key and into the lock be a good or bad idea? What type of lubricant do you guys use? Not sure what the locks/ignition on a 944 require.
Interesting website suggesting some sort of graphite lubricant:
http://www.acmehowto.com/howto/homem...w/keystick.php


A different website suggesting not to use graphite lubricant:
http://www.masterlock.com/general/fa...dservice.shtml

alordofchaos

I used to use WD40 - stuck the thin red tube into the lock, give it a spritz, insert the key and turn it a few times. Then I take the key out and wipe it down to get rid of the oil before sticking it back in my pocket.

Always worked in other cars, though lately I've switched to using silicone lube spray. Don't drive the 944 in cold weather, so can't comment on that.

Catfood

WD-40 will loosen that stuff up, just spritz it in and every couple monthes give it another shot.

Bri Bro

Silicon spary.

RSKY BIZ

To round out the vote here, I have been advised from my 928 Guru, ROG100 -- 'GRAPHITE' . . .

bearone

wd40 is a dirt magnet, silicone spray is much better.

87951

ejsaenz

I wouldn't recommend using WD-40. It eventually dries up into a sticky mess. It is not really a lubricant. We have many peices of equipment here at work that had to be totally disassembled due to a mechanic (electrical) spraying WD junk on the moving items.

The only thing I use is a dry graphite spray. The brand we use is Sprayon S00204. No relation or anything to do with this company.The carrier evaporates leaving a thin film of clear graphite as a lubricant. There is a dark graphite they make but it makes a mess. Be aware that Graphite is conductive. Over time it may create gremlins in you electrical system.

My buddy used graphite in his brand new F350 ingnition and put too much in , so much that we had to rig a spray tube ( the little red ones that are used as lubrican extensions) to a vacuum cleaner and carefully remove all the impacted teflon at the bottom of the key slot. That and a bunch of dental picks to break it out. it took a while but we got it working.

bader$

I agree. Graphite drys to a powder does not atract dirt. It is what the manufacturers recommend.

FRporscheman

Graphite is the appropriate and traditionally recommended lubricant for locks/keyholes. The only thing I don't like about it is it's so hard to apply it. If you squeeze the tube, the graphite just puffs out and doesn't go into the lock. If you don't squeeze the tube, well, nothing happens. Ugh.

yellowline

I squeeze the tube of graphite directly into the key slot. Of course, I don't use much.

xsboost90

graphite lube- only way to go.

bader$

You can buy in a spray can now that has a application straw like come with wd40. Just insert the straw and spray, the propellant evaporates and leave the graphite.

sillbeer

I 2nd the graphite lube. On my 83, the drivers side lock was stiff, and even worse in cold weather. So, I removed the handle assembly and removed the lock. I found sticky, semi dried up old lubricant. I dont even know what it was. It was hard to remove. I had to completely disassemble the lock assmebly and take the tumblers out. I soaked them in castrol super clean for about 10 mins. I then took my dremel out and with a wire brush, cleaned them off to a nice shine. Then I had to run pieces of wire and zip ties in and out of the housing to clean out all of the old gunk. once that was out, I re streched the tumbler springs, and lubed the tracks up with powder graphite. I reassembled the lock, and also re stretched the return "centering" spring on the inside. FOr good measure, i shot a fair amount of powder graphite in the lock hole and worked the key in and out and also ran it back and forth. Now, the key goes in like butter, and locking or unlocking the door is nice and smooth. The key even returns to the center again!! The whole process probably took me about 3 hours. But when I do the passenger side I'll probably get it down to an hour and a half or so...

951Tom

I just did my ignition keyhole and man what a difference! Mine was getting hard to turn and I was beginning to wonder if I needed a new key cylinder. It works really nice & smooth now. I used the graphite spray designed for locks also. Not a lot though, just a one quick little spray is all you need.

Tom
'87 951

Chris_924s

Graphite. x3. WD40 will loosen it up- but dust will collect shortly thereafter (besides it's flammable??)