"Sticky" trunk latch...

Hello everyone .. I hope all is well with you and yours.... I have a question here pertaining to my trunk latch. The guy I bought the car from had a "Key" release installed. It is not a "Pull" type release. And now I'm having problems getting this sucker to open when I turn the key.. yes it is a mechanical latch so no power is needed. I was wondering if I could use grafite dush to lub the cable or is WD 40 the way to go?

Any insight here is welcomed....

Speedster "D"

Hi David
I don't know about the lube question, but I am interested in securing the trunk on my VS. Can you tell me more about the trunk release system? thanks....

WD-40 is not a good lubricant IMO
ed

Hello Ernie, I really can not say my friend.. The previous owner said that Kirk at VS put it on for him. I do not know for sure if that is a true statement. You might wanna ask Kirk too. I had asked Kirk about it a while ago and he did not seem to recall this particular car, but you can not blame him either.. They build a few every year over at VS.. LOL... The latch it self is mechanical, just turn and it should release the trunk. I did not see any vendor name or P/N on this lock either.. Sorry bout that Ernie wish I could help more...

Speedster "D"

As you say David; use graphite or sewing machine oil (I use 3 in 1 brand). Follow Ed's advice and don't use WD40 there. I've used 3 in 1 brand oil for the decklid as well as for the trunk mechanisms and the difference is like night and day. Before lubing them it felt as if they were stuck; not anymore.

Another great lub is a Gereman product being distributed in the US called BALLISTOL. Try finding it at gun shops. Have used it extensively in many applications and as yet have found no negatives. Shooters use it all the time. I live in a very humid, salty air area and after putting it in my home and office door locks and my release cables for both the hood and engine cover 3 years ago I have yet needed to apply again.

Exactly Ricardo... I have this "Sticking" feeling and I did not want to force anything especially with a key.. That's all I need is to break-off a key... I will look for the 3 in 1 too.

Thanks Folks..

Speedster "D"

WD-40 is a great product - with corporate headquarters right here in San Diego. But it was only designed to be a "water dispersent" for aero space applications. It was NEVER DESIGNED to be a lubricant! Be that as it may, I still use it for a light cutting fluid for drilling, for freeing rusty bolts and for cleaning metal parts. Even for cleaning my hands. But NOT in locks. It will turn sticky over time and retain all mannner of dirt if parts are not wiped clean after use. Graphite or 3-1 oil or even silicone spray lube is good for locks, just don't mix them with each other too often.

Thanks Dave... It is graphite then.. Just have to find a tube!
Speedster "D"