Lubricating an ammo can?

[I!]

I've an ammo can that's really tough to open, especially in the current wintry conditions.

 

Is there a proven method of loosening it up, e.g. with some sort of lubricant, that doesn't affect the seal and doesn't make the box icky to handle?

 

I have one idea already, but I can't find anyone to loan me the right type of frog:

[+Pharisee]

I've an ammo can that's really tough to open, especially in the current wintry conditions.

 

Is there a proven method of loosening it up, e.g. with some sort of lubricant, that doesn't affect the seal and doesn't make the box icky to handle?

 

I have one idea already, but I can't find anyone to loan me the right type of frog:

The usual reason ammo cans get hard to open is the hinge gets rusty. If you can get the lid open first; at least 90 degrees; then knock the lid sideways off the hinge pins. Once you have the lid and box separated, the hinge can be cleaned with a wire brush or fine "sand-paper". Once the hinge is de-rusted and works freely, a smear of waterproof grease (I use the PTFE loaded stuff sold for bicycle chains) or even "Vaseline" on the pins before final re-assembly will keep it rust-free and working smoothly. You don't need to put it on the seal. If the closing over-centre mechanism is stiff, then free it up with something like WD40 and wipe off the excess before hiding the box.

[+thekennelat79]

All excellent advice.

 

Some of my ammo boxes have been out in all weathers for over 5 years, and no problems have been encountered.

[I!]

... the hinge gets rusty ... the closing over-centre mechanism is stiff ...

Neither of those is much of a problem (I think ... hmm, but I'll double check the hinge). I think the problem is the friction of the lid on the sides of the box -- it's a very snug fit -- and was wondering if there was much one could do about that.

[+currykev]

And don't forget.

Once you've opened it, make sure you don't fill it with the usual tat seen in most large containers.

[I!]

Perhaps the first visitor can donate some nice expensive bike lube in exchange for one of the mouldy McToys I left there

[+Pharisee]

... the hinge gets rusty ... the closing over-centre mechanism is stiff ...

Neither of those is much of a problem (I think ... hmm, but I'll double check the hinge). I think the problem is the friction of the lid on the sides of the box -- it's a very snug fit -- and was wondering if there was much one could do about that.

Sounds to me like a little subtle 'bending' is required. A pair of big pliers and a hefty bloke should sort you out... in a manner of speaking

[+Bear and Ragged]

The squadies method works, both for opening and closing an ammo can...

 

I try not to use the method, unless 100% necessary.

[+Buckleberry]

As per Pharisee, try some bike-specific stuff like GT85 from most bike shops. It lubricates but dries to leave a nice coating that isn't too icky...

[+martlakes]

This was one we found on the Isle of Man - beyond the point that lube would help! As I picked it up my finger went through the rust on one edge. The lid isn't attached anymore as the hinges have gone. The pic shows the best side, the other has obvious holes. The problem is being right on the sea cliff: salt and iron. Funnily enough the contents (in a bag) were dry as it's hidden under a ledge.

 

http://coord.info/GCTATF

[I!]

Crikey, never seen something like that before ... and no Needs Maintenance log to boot!

[+Pharisee]

This was one we found on the Isle of Man - beyond the point that lube would help! As I picked it up my finger went through the rust on one edge. The lid isn't attached anymore as the hinges have gone. The pic shows the best side, the other has obvious holes. The problem is being right on the sea cliff: salt and iron. Funnily enough the contents (in a bag) were dry as it's hidden under a ledge.

 

http://coord.info/GCTATF

Oh, I dunno.... a quick rub over with the wet and dry and a can of aerosol paint

 

Seriously... that one looks a bit past it's sell-by date !

I had a big ammo can in a forest near Chicksands a few years ago that was run over by a timber tractor while they were doing some logging. It was completely flattened. I did manage to salvage some of the contents but the can was consigned to the scrap metal skip at work!

Edited December 7, 2010 by Pharisee

[+Captain Gore-tex]

I wouldn't bother too much, some get will probably nick it soon anyway.

[+JeremyR]

Wow...

 

From this:

(same cache, believe it or not)

to the above in just four and a half years?! That's amazing.

Perhaps there was a hole in the paintwork that let the water in initially and the corrosion started from there?

[+Border Caz]

And people wonder why I prefer a nice big butty box to these inventions of the devil.