Frozen Flush Mounted Dunlops Straplocks

[warwick_thumper]

My '98 Warwick thumb bolt-on came stock with flush mounted dunlop straplocks. Recently one of the locks has rusted permanently inside the mount (I know I should have wiped it down often and removed the strap each time). I have used denatured alcohol and wd-40 to try to remove the rust that is preventing the pins that hold the locks in from moving. I don't want to drill into the lock and possibly crack the ovangkol body. Anybody else have this problem? Suggestions?

[Thunderscreech]

Get a can of PB Blast and spray it on the lock. The stuff'll eat through the rust. You just have to let it set a little while, but it should work.

Unless it's too caustic for use on the instrument.

[Pilgrim]

Any good penetrating oil will get in there if you let it sit for a couple of days. Just try not to smear it on the finish - it shouldn't hurt anything, but why take chances?

[RED5]

Originally Posted by Thunderscreech

Get a can of PB Blast and spray it on the lock. The stuff'll eat through the rust. You just have to let it set a little while, but it should work.

Unless it's too caustic for use on the instrument.

PB is the tool I've used it on exhaust bolts, but I'm not sure it'll leave the wood unscathed. If you do use it? apply it sparingly, maybe just a drop on a Q-tip of a toothpick. I would try to work it loose mechanically, maybe just an occaisional tap with a tack hammer.But I'd save the chemical warfare for a last resort

[warwick_thumper]

Thanks guys. I think it should be fine because the lock is surrounded entirely by the metal grommet.