My Lock Cylinders Used To Work Fine But Now Deadbolt Will Not Lock All The Way

Question:

I have a braxton creek now Bontrager Bushwhacker. I was having some problems with the doors on and off and also wanted them keyed alike. I ordered a 2 new cylinders and keys and changed the problem cylinder. No problems all summer until now. The key will now not fully into the lock deadbolt. I ended up completely removing the handle from the trailer but still cant the key, nor can I remove the cylinder. For the time being I have reinstalled the handle just so I can close the door but I cant lock it. Any suggestions?

asked by: Sharon M

Expert Reply:

Hey Sharon, thanks for reaching out. Sorry to hear about the problems with your lock. It sounds like the lock core may have seized up. One thing you can do is try spraying some WD-40 into the lock. You can slide the key in and our of the lock and wiggle it around a bit to help the spray penetrate the lock. Repeating this process a few times can help free things up so you can lock the deadbolt. If you are able to get it to lock, I do recommend removing and replacing the lock cores again. This way you can avoid the same thing happening again.

If the WD-40 thing doesn't help, there is really not much else we can try. Your best bet in this case would be to have a locksmith take a look, or you can drill out the old cores so they can be removed and replaced. Drilling the locks should be treated as a last resort.

expert reply by: Jesse M