Sticky Ignition Lock

[ejether]

I've got a problem with a sticky ignition lock on my 2006 FZ6.
When I test drove it, I had no problems, but now it takes almost a minute each time to get it to turn properly. Its not a matter of force, once I get it lined up, it turns very easily. It is hard to get lined up properly.

I spoke with the PO and confirmed that is has this problem when he owned it and had no particular advice on how to make it work. I have lubricated the cylinder.

The key is not particularly worn.

I do have the key fob code but before I spend the money to get a new key cut I wanted to see if any one has experienced the same and had a fix for it.

 

[Motogiro]

Some times you have to finesse the key in and out just a little to find the sweet spot. This could be from damaged/worn tumbler or a poor copy of the original key. Your key code would be a good place to start.

 

[ejether]

Some times you have to finesse the key in and out just a little to find the sweet spot. This could be from damaged/worn tumbler or a poor copy of the original key. Your key code would be a good place to start.

Well Crap!
I lack all semblance of finesse.

New key it is.
Do you know if any locksmith can do this, or if I'll need to visit a dealer?
The Dealership near me is hard for me to get to during business hours

 

[Skrebs]

Try gently pulling the key towards the fuel tank as you turn it.

I haven't had any issues with the key not turning since i started doing this.

 

[Motogiro]

Well Crap!
I lack all semblance of finesse.

New key it is.
Do you know if any locksmith can do this, or if I'll need to visit a dealer?
The Dealership near me is hard for me to get to during business hours

Couldn't tell you but usually the dealer can make you a key id you have the code

 

[DirtyCashAK]

Mine has the exact same problem. I stopped locking the handle bars and it made it a little easier for me. Off to On that's all I need...

 

[ejether]

Mine has the exact same problem. I stopped locking the handle bars and it made it a little easier for me. Off to On that's all I need...

I almost never lock mine. Though, Ironically, thats the easiest part of the core for me to turn. In and out of Lock is easy, its the on off that get me... :-(

 

[hurrican3p]

I had this same problem on a previous bike.


Try this : Get a tube of dry graphite lube (powder) and give a squeeze into the ignition right where you put the key.

Solved this problem on my previous Suzuki. It's about a $2 fix rather than going to the dealer.

-The Hurricane

 

[Pope Mobile]

I had this same problem on a previous bike.


Try this : Get a tube of dry graphite lube (powder) and give a squeeze into the ignition right where you put the key.

Solved this problem on my previous Suzuki. It's about a $2 fix rather than going to the dealer.

-The Hurricane

This is the answer you seek. Take a pencil and sand down the graphite then pour it in. WD40 works too.

 

[subaron]

I used wd40 late last year and haven't had issues since.

 

[djstrong]

I used the lock graphite that sprays in then dries. It worked good, but later when the lock was sticky and I applied it, it did not fix the lock.

I sprayed some Wet Dupont lube in and it works good again.

So I think the graphite was gumming it up, and I needed to clean it out. Maybe I used too much of the graphite.

Anyways, I'll use a light lube like WD40 or Teflon or Silicone from now on.

 

[ejether]

Try gently pulling the key towards the fuel tank as you turn it.

I haven't had any issues with the key not turning since i started doing this.

That's been KEY... get it..

I used some TriFlow teflon lubricant in there and if I pull the key towards me slightly it turns easily. Great suggestion. Thanks!