Lube for tailgate lock

I have noticed that the key turns harder. I put some powder graphite and it helped but still not happy. I read not to use wd40. Ideas

 

I think what you should be working on are the linkages. Try taking the tailgate cover off and lubricate the mechanical links.

 

Graphite does not freeze and drip. Unless it fails to help I would probably stay "dry".

 

Always dry graphite, never any liquid oils. Keep working the graphite in and follow

 

I'd use Blaster dry lube. Never had any issues using it in a lock. Dries super quick and leaves behind some teflon.

 

Thanks I’ll try removing cover and look. I’ll also put in more graphite

 

WD40 is not a lubricant. The best thing to put in a lock cylinder is spray silicon. It lubricates and waterproofs and will not freeze. Linkage probably needs attention though.

 

Use what the factory uses...
White Lithium on hinges, rids and levers, dry graphite in lock cylinders.

 

Get the OEM tail gate lock while you have that tail gate cover off.

 

I have been selling Thule since the late 80s. Grease, aerosol, and wet lubricants will allow dirt to stick inside the wafers and springs causing the core to not move. I have sold dozens of lock cores to people that have used everything other than graphite due to the wear.
All of my locks use graphite and some of them are over 25 years old with no problems. I have not found dry silicone or dry Teflon lubricants to try since the graphite is readily available.

 

I spray teflon lube in the lock's key hole before each winter, the same time I do the gas cap lock, tonneau lock, driver's door lock, and spare tire padlock.

Incidentally there is a teflon lube sold under the WD40 brand, widely available at most auto parts stores, for example: https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/wd-40/wd-40-dry-lube/wd00/30005?q=30005

 

Thanks to all the valuable input. Nice to have some good input.
Cheers

 

Do you have the power tailgate lock already? If you do, it will naturally make the lock feel stiff to turn. Just sharing that so you don’t waste time if you have the power lock.

 

Found this info from professionals:

https://www.acmelocksmith.com/articles/best-lock-lubricants/