How to Set Up a Padlock – FAQs

How to Set Up a Padlock

Combination locks are a great choice for a multitude of applications, but often the hardest part is setting them up for the first time! The original code for most combination locks is 000, but this is obviously not the most secure. Here’s our step-by-step guide to resetting or setting up a new code for your combination lock.

1. Pull up the shackle of the padlock to unlock it
2. Rotate the shackle counter clockwise by 90 degrees, and press the shackle down
3. Keep holding it down whilst you turn counter clockwise another 90 degrees
4. Set a new combination while the lock is in this position by turning the dials
5. Turn the shackle back to normal, and the reset is complete
6. Test the new combination by turning the dials and attempting to unlock the padlock

How to Fix a Padlock

There are a range of reasons a padlock may break, most of them relatively easy to fix. Here are some of the most common issues, and how to resolve them.

• Combination Wheel Stuck/Jammed Shackle - The combination wheel of a padlock can often get stuck if something is jamming the shackle. This creates tension in the shackle, binding the wheel in place and preventing it from turning. To fix this, you need to work on clearing whatever the blockage in the shackle is. You can apply some form of lubricant like WD-40 in all of the holes of the lock, wiggling and moving the components to help any dirt or blockages slip free.
• Blocked Keyway - More often than not, it is a snapped key that will block a keyway, making it impossible to insert another key into the lock to gain access. In this situation, you would either need to insert something thin enough yet strong enough to provide leverage and ease the blockage out – this could be a thin yet strong wire or similar. You could also try to attach something to the end of the key and pull it out from the outside, but this may prove more difficult depending on how deeply the object is stuck.
• Frozen Parts – This seasonal issue is frustrating to say the least. Cold weather can cause components of your lock to freeze over and prevent it from working properly. Rather than forcing the lock open and risking breakage, you can use isopropyl alcohol to help melt the ice. This is commonly found in rubbing alcohol or hand sanitiser and means you’re not adding extra water for further rust and freezing.

How to Open a Rusted Padlock

If a padlock is used outside, there’s always a chance that exposure to the elements may result in rusting. Even if the outer body is made from an anti-corrosive material, there are internal components that can be subject to this kind of damage – especially so in older or antique locks.

If the lock degrades to a point where it won’t even open, there is a quick fix you can try.

You can spray a lubricant such as WD-40 into the openings of the lock – the drain hole, key slot, shackle holes etc. You can then wiggle the lock around to try and break up or dislodge some of the rust.

It is important to wipe away as much of the lubricant as possible once you get the lock open again – too much of this substance can cause locks to gum up over time, as dust and grime cling to the liquid.

How do you Reset a Padlock

The process of resetting a combination lock is exactly the same as setting it up for the first time once purchased! Follow the same steps as above to reset your padlock.

If you require any further information regarding padlocks, get in touch with our expert team, or shop online today.