Rear tailgate manuel lock...

[PhredzK512]

On my '87 K5 my rear tailgate doesn't lock with the key and I am wondering how I can fix it. I don't want to hunker down on it and get to trying to force it to lock if it doesn't want to give. I don't want to complicate matters by having a broken key in the tailgate lock. Do I need to go a locksmith and see if they're can help with this situation. Presently I get leary of leaving valuables in my Blazer as all anyone has to do is roll the rear window down and take whatever they want. Whatever suggestions or other prior posts would be good. Thanks

 

[British Slave]

Is the problem just the key won't turn? If so, get some GOOD penetrating oil and spray in the key hole and gently work the key and see it it will free up.

 

[British Slave]

If the key turns and just doesn't lock, you most likely need the pawl and spring.

 

[PhredzK512]

Would you recommend WD-40 or a different type of oil? I've basically just tried the key with a bit of pressure just enough not to bend it,...

 

[British Slave]

WD-40 is good.

 

[chevysmithz71]

Youre never supposed to use WD40 in locks. It just attracts-holds onto dirt and dust which makes it worse

 

[PhredzK512]

I see that there are different types of penetrating oil and WD-40 even has one on the market. But I wonder, would I have to remove the inside cover panel of the tailgate to squirt the oil onto backside of the keyhold mechanisms? Or do I just spray into the keyhole?

 

[herkdriver007]

I had an old padlock that had rusted over...put the oil in the key hole every day and tried turning just a lil bit each time

 

[British Slave]

Spray it where the key goes in. use the little tube to get it in all the lock. Then gently work the key back and forth. If it frees up, then, if you are worried about the WD-40 attracting dust, use some contact cleaner to degrease it and then use graphit to lube the lock. In my opinion, a frozen lock is more to worry about than atrtracting dust with WD-40. Get it freed then worry about dust.

 

[British Slave]

Youre never supposed to use WD40 in locks. It just attracts-holds onto dirt and dust which makes it worse

It don't get much worse than a froze up lock. Get it freed up, then worry about the WD-40.

 

[diesel4me]

They sell special oil called "Lock-Ease" at most home centers and parts stores,that is the right stuff...has light machine oil and graphite in it....I have used 3 in one oil too,on my rusty shed padlock with good results...

 

[PhredzK512]

I tried the fine dry powder stuff and sprayed it in the keyhole but still no go,... I'm hoping to avoid the locksmith.

 

[British Slave]

Dry will lubricate a free lock, but doesn't do squat for a frozen lock.