Seized wheel and hitch locks.

connie 2
connie 2 Forum Participant Posts: 29
edited June 2021 in Caravans #1

Hi, just wondering how many have had problems with there security locks after their vans have been sitting in storage during lockdown. I have a small storage facility and had to help 2 customers to release their wheel and hitch locks this week already, they were both ready to get the devices cut off with an angle grinder. After a lot of patience and plenty wd40 and a lot of tapping with a hammer whilst putting on pressure I was able to release their locks. They were both similar designs with a spring loaded ball which should release when the key is turned and then pull the barrel and key out as one. Worth checking yours before your intending to travel!

Comments

  • Wherenext
    Wherenext Club Member Posts: 10,607 ✭✭✭
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    edited June 2021 #2

    Thanks for heads up. 

    I tend to move the wheels regularly so the lock gets taken off at those intervals. I suppose some units haven't moved at all in quite some time. Might be as well to check the tyres at the same time.

  • Takethedogalong
    Takethedogalong Forum Participant Posts: 17,046 ✭✭✭
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    edited June 2021 #3

    No surprise really that things get stuck. As WN says, a bit of routine care keeps things moving. We only had issues with our wheel lock when we left van in storage down in SW rather than had it at home, and it might be a few weeks between trips.

  • Tigi
    Tigi Forum Participant Posts: 1,038
    500 Comments
    edited June 2021 #4

    This is why oil and grease was invented!

  • connie 2
    connie 2 Forum Participant Posts: 29
    edited June 2021 #5

    Yeah, you’d think a new wheel and hitch lock ( Milenco ) would have a bit of lubrication but sadly none, the ball was dry and rust forming. I suspect there will be more customers with the same problem when the rush to get away starts soon.

  • Tinwheeler
    Tinwheeler Forum Participant Posts: 23,142 ✭✭✭
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    edited June 2021 #6

    I think you're meant to supply your own.👍

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