I have tried many type on my outdoor gate padlock. At the same time i also spray some on the gate hinges to see how long they last.

1. WD40/ Selleys RP7. Both are penetrant. They work. But does not last after few times exposed to rain.

2. Synthetic Engine oil. (I used the balance from oil change) Works good. But leaves oily residue on key. Last much longer and can resists a many times heavy rain.

3. Graphite grease. Damn messy and leaves dark mess everywhere. It feels like not much change to locking and unlocking twist. Does not hold well to rain at all. 1 day and its all gone.

4. Silicone spray. This also performs somewhat like WD40. The only difference is that the surface that is coated with silicone resists water better. Remember the gate hinge that i applied on? It does not rust like when i used WD40.

Only some key differences between them. Durability to the elements especially water.

If you are using cheap metal padlocks, use silicone spray. Because the cheap metal does not resist rust from forming. Spray the inside lock ball bearing and inside the key hole. Should make it last for some time.

But i use all brass padlocks now. Even then i still squirt in some silicone spray inside the keyhole and lock bearing.

This post has been edited by netmatrix: Feb 5 2022, 05:53 PM