Trailer Locks that survive winter use

2TrakR

Member
Looking for a better lock for the trailer doors that handle the salt and ice.

Is there a brand/model of lock (aka Master Lock) that you have found to survive the gunk?

I was looking at trying these: http://www.masterlock.com/products/product_details/311KALH

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harski

Member
This is the lock I use but the "shorty" version. I do it the hard way and take them off most every time I tow just to keep the road grime out. Then when I'm parked for an extended period I put them on upside down. I had them freeze on me once right side up and my thought was that moisture had seeped down in thus the reason why I flip them over. Each season I hit them with wd-40, along with the fuel doors and side door on my trailer, just to help keep them lubed up.

I also carry a flameless lighter in the truck and will use that to heat a key or to heat the lock if I have to. Gotta be prepared as we know it's very frustrating when things freeze up and we're in a rush to get sledding or to go home.

Good luck!

Harski
 

Cat600

Member
I do it the hard way and take them off most every time I tow just to keep the road grime out. Then when I'm parked for an extended period I put them on. Each season I hit them with wd-40, along with the fuel doors and side door on my trailer, just to help keep them lubed up.

^this is what I do.

Did try brass locks once, thinking they would rust shut. Wrong, ended up cutting them off.
 
T

Team Elkhorn

Guest
Yep, I never drive on the road with the locks on. I use hitch pins instead. I only install the locks when the trailer is parked and or out of my site.

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eagle1

Well-known member
Never had any luck with the "weather proof" locks. Even took off when travelling.
Now just use a regular lock and throw the torch in the truck.
 

jimmyj

New member
Locks

Try the ABUS Weather Protected lock. Model 83WP. Pricey, but I replaced some Master Locks with the ABUS and what a different so far. Just got back from -20F temps and no freeze ups. I always make sure they are clean and properly lubed every year. I cleaned with gun oil this past fall and it seemed to hold up very well with the last trip with the bitter cold and constants LES. Always carry the torch just in case though or take them off when traveling is a good idea too. I left the 83WP on while traveling and again no issues with freezing up. I bought 4 from a lock shop in Wausau for about $150 and had them all keyed the same. Like I said pricey, but the no freeze issues has paid for themselves already.
 

frosty

Member
I've use a crappy, darn near rusted thru master lock and never had a problem, because once a year I spray antiseize in the tumbler and where the lock locks.

One year I had to beat an ice ball off the lock, stuck the key in there, and turned and opened like it was summer.

Antiseize I use is like a gray spray paint with graphite in it. Just don't get on your hands or clothing!
 
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