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Robert Green Robert Green is offline
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Default Cutting padlocks

I've got a padlock that's been outside too long. The key won't turn
(although after copious amounts of WD40 it does, finally, enter the lock)
and it's in a rather hard to reach spot. I'm heading off to Harbor Freight
this weekend, so I was thinking that the best way to remove the lock would
be to buy an angle grinder and the appropriate cutoff wheels.

Of course, it would be nicest to simply unlock it, and any tips or
suggestions about how to coax it open are welcome. Brass body, looks like
chrome steel hasp and brass key. Have not tried penetrating oil, hammer
bopping, vibrating, heating or cooling yet. Saving the lock is unimportant
so cutting is a good alternative as I've wanted an angle grinder/cutoff tool
for a while. (-:

I see them cutting through industrial-sized padlocks like butter on "Storage
Wars" and it looks like they are using an electrically powered 5 or 6" angle
grinder. HF sells an air powered version, but I've got a cheap
compressor )-: that I doubt would power it. An electric tool would be
better. I have a lithium-ion powered Dremel, but I don't think it would cut
through on a single charge. It's just to lightweight a tool for this job.

Anyone have any tips for weatherproofing a replacement? Blobs of silcone
over the key hole and where the hasps enter the body of the lock?

--
Bobby G.