Warning: do not buy rotopax lock mount

These turds are designed to fail. I’m on my third lock already and it’s seized completely. I cannot unlock it. Because of it, I cannot deploy my tent (have to remove pax).

Spoke to rotopax customer service and they said they were fully aware of the issue and had no plans to change the design or improve it. They suggested soaking it in WD40 before use (which I did on the last set).

They did offer to send me new lock cylinders but that does you zero good when you can’t get it off in the first place and you’re out in the boonies. They also won’t send you a new set until AFTER they receive the defective set. Also the keys are made of cheap knock-off metal that bend under modest pressure (probably why they send you three).

Good thing I decided to function check my stuff ahead of the weekend.

Buyer beware.

 

Well that sucks! I haven’t had any trouble with mine but I’ll squirt some graphite lube into it before I use it again.

 

Last cylinder I replaced literally disentigrated in my hands.

 

If they're a standard size, just replace them with something quality.

 

Bummer! I haven’t had any issue with the 2 I’ve had on my truck since January. Maybe because they are still new and garage kept. I do see some rust forming in the locks though, not much. Maybe I should wd-40 now before it’s too late.

 

Thank you for heads up!

 

I think it’s because all the internals are loosely packed into the cylinder and rust out quickly. Eventually weathering gets in and the process is inevitable.

 

thanks, ive been trying to talk myself into one of those, glad i didn't.

 

I had a similar problem with the locks on my alucab canopy. I think a lot of stuff is designed for a perfect dry environment.

 

Yep, ill stick to my cable locks.

 

Disassemble as much as possible and soak it in the CRC cosmoline stuff. That's what I did with my sabelco lock and every other lock that's left outside. Works well.

 

I wouldn’t buy them again anyways. I had two cans easily stolen off my truck while I had the lock system. The thieves just twisted the locked handle open. I’m sure it marred up the inside a little bit, but it didn’t leak fuel. Cable lock is the only secure way.

 

Everything is just a deterrent. If anyone is determined enough, they can steal anything they want. I wouldn’t ever think of having any exterior mods like that if I parked outside.

 

Just happened to me as well. How did you remove them?

 

I actually really like the 4gal fuel tanks and use them frequently when I’m out on trail runs. My only thought was that I wouldn’t splurge for the locking handles again.

 

Late reply but here’s a trick from the Army we used in the Stan..put your graphite in work the lock several times then drip candle wax at an angle until its coated. If it keeps Stan dust out will work for the shite we have here too

 

Sorry to hear your experience. Zero issues with mine after 2 years.