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Probably simple question: very sticky ignition key

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esullivan
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Joined: 06 Mar 2012
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PostPosted: 22:34 - 05 Jan 2013    Post subject: Probably simple question: very sticky ignition key Reply with quote
The key on my bike is very sticky. I have to jiggle it around a while sometimes to unlock the steering or start the bike. Getting it in or out is sometimes a chore. Is this a common problem? I didn't have this issue on the last couple of bikes, nor in any of the cars I've owned. But this is a new bike, with a bit over 1,000 miles, so maybe it's something that happens at first and then loosens up? Does anyone else have this issue and how did you solve it?
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bladerunner
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PostPosted: 23:44 - 05 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
Try a bit of wd40/light oil on the key then with the key in the barrel give the ignition a couple of drops and see if that works.
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jcewright
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PostPosted: 23:47 - 05 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
When this happened on my AR I dipped my key in two stroke and gave it a wiggle, Haven't had a problem 8 months on.
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Paivi
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PostPosted: 23:51 - 05 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
bladerunner wrote:
Try a bit of wd40/light oil on the key then with the key in the barrel give the ignition a couple of drops and see if that works.

No no no. All that will do is attract all kind of dust and grit to the key, which you'll then transplant into the ignition.

What you need to do is rub the key with a pencil, as the graphite (aka lead) will make it less sticky.
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Nick 50
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PostPosted: 00:06 - 06 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
I fixed the same problem as changing the ignition barrel.

Is this happening on your Honda NC700S?? Worrying if it is.
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CaNsA
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PostPosted: 06:38 - 06 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
WD40 is shit.

Grab some silicon spray and give the lock a squirt.

Job done.
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Pete.
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PostPosted: 07:52 - 06 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
WD40 followed by oil. WD40 will loosen up and wash the crud out of the workings and the oil will lubricate them.
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esullivan
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PostPosted: 09:22 - 06 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
Nick 50 wrote:
I fixed the same problem as changing the ignition barrel.

Is this happening on your Honda NC700S?? Worrying if it is.


Yes, it's happening on the NC700S. Why is it particularly worrying there?

Two things make me think the problem is exposure to the constant rain we've been having lately: First, I'm having the exact same problem with the top box, which is a different key. Second, the ignition key works perfectly fine (no sticking at all) to open the tank/storage and seat. That keyhole is more protected from the rain. I use a cover at night (I don't have a garage), but the bike sits outside all day while I'm at work near Finsbury Square.

I'll try graphite first (I have pencils around) and/or silicon spray if my local Halfrauds has it, but if this keeps up, I'll also swing by the dealer next week.
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Previous: '12 NC700S, '11 CBF 125, '04 SH 125.
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esullivan
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PostPosted: 09:25 - 06 Jan 2013    Post subject: Reply with quote
SWID wrote:
Don't use WD40 in a key barrel, it's what usually causes the problem in the first place.

If the bike is under warranty then get the dealer to look at it, so long as your confidant a 'mate' hasn't been squirting stuff in there.

Also, make sure you're turning the bars to take any pressure off the steering lock when using the key.

There are spring loaded brass tumblers inside the lock which the ridges on your key push out to enable the key to turn. These tumblers are greased. If you use WD40 then it will wash away the grease, the WD40 will dry & you have no lubricant to help the tumblers. This is why you need to wiggle & jiggle the key.

Over time the brass tumblers or alloy body of the barrel will become burred making the whole problem a lot worse. Either the wiggle & jiggle becomes ineffective or the key eventually snaps off.


Thanks. Just before I posted here (sigh), I sprayed the key with WD40 and tried it (didn't help), so I'll need to re-lubricate. As others have suggested, I'll try graphite or silicon and then bring it to the dealer if it continues to be a problem.
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Previous: '12 NC700S, '11 CBF 125, '04 SH 125.
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