Outdoor TV Lock Inoperative

[cyclist922]

I have a 3 year old motor home with an outside “Entertainment Center” that I haven’t used. Recently I decided to open it up and I use the radio while working in the garage.

But the darn lock is stuck. It seems to unlock, meaning the key turns and the handle releases, but the locking mechanism does not actually unlatch. I have drowned it with WD-40, but I’m reluctant to drill into it. Any ideas?

I’m not even sure what the name is for this type of latch. Appreciate any advice you have.Attachment 1

[Kiss4aFrog]

What year make and model is it?
If your using the WD40 penetrating oil you're good but if it's just the regular WD40 you might try an actual penetrating oil like P.B.Blaster or the WD40 one.

You might get some helpful ideas of how it unlocks by opening another door and taking a look at the backside and seeing how the latch operates.

.

[masdixdragon]

Try pressing the face down hard on the cylinder end. The key doesnt lock the latch, it locks the release button.

[Dutch Star Don]

Similar to above, press the door shut hard with your hand. While holding pressure on it, try the lock. Since you haven't opened it in three years, the seals make be stuck and a good hard pull is needed.

[BZTS561]

Dutch Star Don is likely bang-on with the suggestion that the seals are stuck to the door. I have the same lock and door and I find the door sticks to the seals. Even after a few weeks I have to tug on it a bit to get it to release from the seals.

[Rbhein]

When I unlock the outside TV access door on my Phaeton. The door gasket will stick to the frame. I have to pull pretty hard to get it to open. Your door may be unlocked, but just stuck. Try pulling from one corner in a slow and steady manner. P

[Kiss4aFrog]

It's a good habit to get into when doing an oil change go around and spray some penetrating oil into the locks, smear a little grease on surface of the striker for the lock on the compartment doors and some silicone on the bay and door gaskets.

[c_oneil]

All my cargo doors use this type of latch. They were made by Southco. I have had the latches jam on the inside of the door when you slam a door closed with the latch in a closed or even partially closed position. On my baggage compartments I could get to the inside of the latch with a screwdriver through and adjacent compartment and pry it free.