OEM Saddle Bag Locks

[Wardawg]

Has anyone replaced the factory locks in the OEM saddle bags? On my last trip, I found that through excessive use, the keys were getting harder and harder to insert and remove....actually was afraid of breaking the keys. Looking for a more durable lock to replace them.

 

[vondalyn]

I'll be watching this thread! I have already made a bunch of copies of both my saddle bag and my urban rack keys because I've noticed that I've twisted both keys, so you're definitely not the only one who is having issues with these locks.

 

[one2doo]

I put a bunch of graphite in mine fixed it.:yes:

 

[Slagiatt]

Helping the bag out...

I've noticed that leaning into the cover (pushing in) as you turn the key takes all the pressure off of locking/unlocking the lid.

Still rolling my eyes over the different directions of the key holes (1 perpendicular and one parallel). :dontknow:

 

[kaamacat]

I've noticed that leaning into the cover (pushing in) as you turn the key takes all the pressure off of locking/unlocking the lid.

Still rolling my eyes over the different directions of the key holes (1 perpendicular and one parallel). :dontknow:

I do the same with mine. Apply small pressure with my leg while opening and closing. (And also wondering what
drug they were on when crafting that whole thing, including the different directions for the lock)

 

[Wardawg]

Agree, but....

I've noticed that leaning into the cover (pushing in) as you turn the key takes all the pressure off of locking/unlocking the lid.

Still rolling my eyes over the different directions of the key holes (1 perpendicular and one parallel). :dontknow:

Yes, once you get the key in, applying pressure works well, but my real issue is getting the key inserted in the first place...it's very difficult and I'm afraid the pressure will cause the key to snap. When I'm successful, removing the key is even a challenge. I have "oiled" the locks and it helps some, but I'm really looking to replace the darn things.

I have Googled some cylinder lock companies and have found some that look similar, but not sure of the "fit".....it may take some trial an error. Was hoping someone has been down this path already....guess not.

 

[kaamacat]

Something like this with a modified end (or swap the one that's on the unit now) might work.

http://www.grainger.com/product/EDS...8ALF6&ef_id=VbJieAAAARo6fnsz:20150724160616:s

 

[Wardawg]

Exactly!

Something like this with a modified end (or swap the one that's on the unit now) might work.

http://www.grainger.com/product/EDS...8ALF6&ef_id=VbJieAAAARo6fnsz:20150724160616:s

Yup! I've seen this item on that site and was wondering the same thing. I may have to give it a try.

 

[qasamm]

I am so glad I am not the only one having difficulty in getting the keys in and out.

And yes the different direction of the key slots drives me crazy.


Sam Mancuso
2015 F3-S and 2009 RS

 

[Blickdave]

Thanks Wardawg for raising this issue! I too will be watching this thread for options to replace the OEM locks. My preference would be a lockable push button or lockable handle/knob so you don't have to insert a key every time you want in!!! CRAZY


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[qasamm]

I just replaced mine with 5/8 inch cylinder Combi-cams. A real quick, 10 minute switch out and I like them. If I had to do it again I'd get them in black.

The cam locks are 5/8 of an inch long and I used the latch arms from the old locks. I think any 5/8 inch cams would work- there are plenty of types available on Amazon. When locked the combination tops are in the same orientation on both sides. No more keys!




Sam Mancuso
2015 F3-S and 2009 RS

 

[pauly1]

I lubed with a cry film PTFE spray-works great for key movement but doesn't solve the crappy fiction of the latching system.

 

[Blickdave]

Thanks qasamm for the pics and info, looks real nice and just what I need. Love this forum and the help others offer!!!


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[vondalyn]

that's what I needed!

Thanks for the info Sam -- I might end up going for the combo locks if the key option turns out badly, but I don't mind keys and these locks look like they might be a winner for me. I think I just needed to hear from someone else on what worked for them before I took the leap and ordered something.

http://www.amazon.com/FJM-Security-...1437962945&sr=8-2&keywords=5/8+black+cam+lock

Once I get them and install them, I'll provide some feedback.

 

[Wardawg]

Cool!

I just replaced mine with 5/8 inch cylinder Combi-cams. A real quick, 10 minute switch out and I like them. If I had to do it again I'd get them in black.

The cam locks are 5/8 of an inch long and I used the latch arms from the old locks. I think any 5/8 inch cams would work- there are plenty of types available on Amazon. When locked the combination tops are in the same orientation on both sides. No more keys!

View attachment 112247
View attachment 112248

Sam Mancuso
2015 F3-S and 2009 RS

THANKS! I just ordered the black set with the dust covers. This looks like the perfect option and I love the fact that no keys are needed. Sweet! I'll post pics once I get them installed. Thanks again!

 

[vondalyn]

Thanks for the info Sam -- I might end up going for the combo locks if the key option turns out badly, but I don't mind keys and these locks look like they might be a winner for me. I think I just needed to hear from someone else on what worked for them before I took the leap and ordered something.

http://www.amazon.com/FJM-Security-...1437962945&sr=8-2&keywords=5/8+black+cam+lock

Once I get them and install them, I'll provide some feedback.

Don't order these because the back part is not the same design, so the square hole of the saddlebag latch mechanism doesn't have anything square on the lock to fit over for a "for sure" lock/unlock. I could probably use locktight and make it work, but I think I'd rather not use locktight. I might also be able to find or manufacture a little square fitting that would make this work perfectly. Once Don gets home we'll see if we can do some creative "kit bashing", we make a good team when it comes to that stuff.

 

[Mike Ard]

jst got my saddle bags put on. will be watching to see what works best.

 

[vondalyn]

jst got my saddle bags put on. will be watching to see what works best.

The backs of the 5/8 combi cam locks on amazon appear to have the same back as the original OEM cam lock, so it looks like the easiest switch. I like the locks that I ordered and I got 3 that are keyed alike so I only have to carry one "barrel" key for all 3 locks. I've come up with a kit bash that should work and I'll see if I can implement it once i hit "submit" here. I'll let you know if it works like I think it will. I'll attempt to take some pictures so my solution makes sense if anyone besides me decides to take the difficult route.

 

[vondalyn]

my kit bash worked (at least for the saddlebag)

The first 2 pictures are the OEM setup, so you can see the backside of the cam lock with the square post that the screw goes into.
The second 2 pictures are the newly installed barrel key lock.
The final picture shows the "back side" of the aftermarket barrel lock that I ordered, Hopefully you can see that there is a flat side on the smaller screw post that the locknut threads onto -- both sides are flat, causing the post to be an oval shape. The flat sides allowed me to put filler around the oval post, allowing me to "lock" the latch thingy (a technical term I'm sure) onto the post. I tried several options but finally took a hacksaw to a 6d finish nail and cut a small chunk of it out and that fit perfectly onto one side of the post, and the lock mechanism still works even though the latch thingy isn't perfectly centered.

I haven't gotten to the urban rack yet, so hard to say what will happen with that one.

 

[vondalyn]

5/8 cam works on the urban rack too

The same kit bash worked for my urban rack lock. This lock got the most use and not only had I twisted a couple of keys fighting with it, but the lock itself was starting to twist and look like I was going to break it. Have to admit that the lock mechanisms used on the f3 accessories are cheap. nojoke

I got my "kit bash" to work on the urban rack as well as the saddlebags, and I have to say I'm tickled pink at how easy it is to lock/unlock, and now I only have a single key for all 3 locks -- yeah!!!!

Thought I'd include a picture of the worst twisted OEM lock as well as the new one.