sticky ignition

[frankieG]

last winter was the first time i have left a motorcycle out exposed to the elements before. since taking her out the ignition has been very hard to turn and is getting worse.  i have to turn the bars to the locking position and frig with the key before i can get it to the start postion.  my question is this.  can i wd40 or otherwise lube the ignition key portal without damaging it?  will this help resolve the problem?  it is getting very hard to get the key into either the locking or start position and i am concerned it may just seize up on me. 

thank you in advance for your answers.

frankie

[ls 64086]

i had the same problem. spray white lithium (chain lube) into the lock cylinder then work it in and out with the key - twisting, pressing, locking etc. remove and spray more in and repeat. works like a charm. i did this a month plus ago and it still seems brand new.

[frankieG]

great thanks

[lowcountrygs]

I had the same problem, i used some powdered graphite and the problem was solved.

[yamahonkawazuki]

yup lithium works wonders, wd40 would as well, BUT it evaporates quickly whereas teh spray grease does not

[laserred97gt]

There is a product called "Lock Ease" which is a light oil with graphite designed just for this.  buy some, put it on the key and work it in and out up and down, back and forth.

Believe me, you will not believe how well this stuff works, and it does not attract dirt.

Once you're done with your bike, go do all of your car locks and house locks.  Even if you have keyless entry, you may have to use them someday.

LR97GT