T-Handle Lock Fix

Hi I’m Mike Johnson with Radco Truck Accessory Center.
Sometimes we get asked how you can free up seized T-Handles or how to determine if you need to replace them.
Here’s a couple tips:
Some tools you’re going to need is a penetrating lubricant. We’ve got PB Blaster here that works really well for freeing up T-Handles. You can use WD-40, but something we’ve noticed though is that once it’s cleaned out the handle, you’ll want to use some form of dielectric grease because it tends to attract more dirt particles in there after using it. We’ve got a channel lock or pliers, a couple sets of keys, and a towel, and then a little bit of patience.
So, a lot of these T-Handles are going to be seized up so much that the little cover door that’s on the handle actually won’t go in, so you won’t even be able to input the key into the handle. So, in this situation what you’ll want to do is start hitting it with the penetrating lubricant. And then just let it soak in for a little bit. So, after letting the lubricant sit in for a little bit you, you’ll want to take the key and try to push it in or tap it in place. It’s still going to be a little froze up, but now that we’ve got it open we can get more lubricant on the inside. You’re going to want to slowly do quick little jerks to try and break it loose.
So, this one wasn’t too hard to do. Just got it broke loose. And once it’s all cleaned up, you’re going to want to put some dialectic grease on the inside of the lock. It will keep it from corroding. On top of that, some things you can do to keep this from happening is, is getting a rubber lock sock, which is just a cover that goes over the existing handle. Once you’re done with this, you should be good to go. If you have any questions stop in at any one of our eight retail stores or give me a call at 888-637-9638. Thanks a lot!