Jammed Ignition Help!

[maxinc]

So I though I'd go for a ride, geared all up, about to start the bike when ... the key refuses to slide into the ignition lock.

It goes down about 40% of the length and reaches some sort of spring mechanism. Pushing further goes in another 2-3mm and that's it. It doesn't even reach the square part of the key.

The lock doesn't seem to have been tampered with. Bike is standing on my patio with no public access. Last time I used it was 2 days ago and didn't notice anything strange while inserting the key.

Any thoughts of what might have happened and tips to clear it out? I hope it doesn't need a new lock ...

[husky03]

wd40 and leave it for a few mins

[maxinc]

I've added some WD-40 but didn't leave it for long. I hope it is that easy :(

[Owenski]

has someone screwdrivered the iginiton>

incey wincy tiny winey bit of Boiling water followed by wd40, then in/out repeat with key until its lubed enough ;)

[husky03]

try your spare key

[danf1234]

Does sound like someone has had a dig at your ignition.

[collis]

I always drop WD40 down the barrel, and ACF50 the key with left overs after doing the bike, after all we dont want the keys rusting either do we.
Sticky i think is a symptom of where the ignition is, in the weather and with a big gaping hole in it.

[maxinc]

Thanks guys! I was getting desperate!

I injected WD-40 with the straw inside the ignition and that loosed it. It felt like some sand / dust grinding the key when I manage to insert it. Should I lube the ignition with some Silicone lube I have (3in1 brand) or WD-40 is enough?

[danf1234]

A bit late to go for a blast now too!

[toxic]

I use ACF-50 to lube my locks and ignitions, it's expensive, so I only use it for important stuff. White lithium grease for 3-1 fro everything else.

[Bluepete]

Take out the barrell, clean and replace. If there is grit in there, it'll only get worse and wear out the pins etc. I cleaned it out once or twice on my SV. As other said, Keep it lubed, ACF-50 seems to work well!

Pete ;)

[Sally]

Wasn't frozen was it?

I used to get that if water got in and it was baltic outside...

Boiling water as per Owen said, or if you're out and about, lighter over the key to warm it up to melt the ice works a treat :)

[maxinc]

A bit late to go for a blast now too!

I would have been really ****ed if this would have spoiled my afternoon!

[maxinc]

Wasn't frozen was it?

That actually crossed my mind. 2 days ago I've done about 60 miles through London in constant rain and muddy spray. Judging by how dirty the bike and my gear is, I wouldn't be surprised if some of that carp got into the barrel and frozen in there.

[danf1234]

I would have been really ****ed if this would have spoiled my afternoon!


At least you weren't on your way to work mate.

[maxinc]

At least you weren't on your way to work mate.

I was. I work from home. :p

[danf1234]

B-A_STard Unlucky. - Get it looked, at these things rarely vanish.

[toxic]

i also use air blaster, basically compressed air in a can, comes with a thin tube that fits in ignitions... not too much if ignition is wet, canned air is pretty cold.