I have a 2001 fxd. You can manually lock the handlbars with the round type key from the column. I have never had any issues with locking/Unlocking the bars. When I went to take my first ride this year I unlocked the handle bars but the key would not come out when I lock it it comes out fine but when I unlock them the key doesnt want to twist all the way down and come out. I keep it garaged in my grandfathers garage over the winter and when I went to work on it a couple weeks ago I noticed he locked the bars and left the keys in. I dont know if this has anything to do with the problem or not. I used some lubricant on the key hole but still didnt work.

 

Use some graphite lock lube.If this does not help you are looking at taking it apart.I lube mine with a few drops every time I service it or if I am out in the rain.

 

ok I'll have to try it. I think maybe a bearing or something has rusted so that may fix the problem.

 

I have similar experience, except when I bought my used FLHP, the key would never lock the lock. I took it to the dealer, and they just him hawed around like I had been the one to tamper with the lock! Now I am looking to have them replace it or re-key it, or whatever. Any ideas?

 

Replace ignition and fork locks on a 98 wideglide. Took awhile taking the triple tree apart.

 

I had ignition with a problem like that and spray it with WD 40 a couple times and work the key back and forth. My locking pin was getting dirty.

 

Don't use graphite. It's a metal... albeit a soft metal it will still score the internals, it may take a while to do so but it will do it. I had the same problem with all my locks after getting a spare key made. Sprayed WD-40 and gave it a good workout. Most of my tumblers were stuck/rusting. I ride my bike in all weather so I'm gonna collect rust faster than most so I keep them sprayed out regularly now.

 

Sorry IRideMine, but, with all due respect, you are wrong. graphite is not a metal, it is a form of carbon. Carbon is not a metal. Using sprays like WD40 and other liquids in locks is very bad. Oils and liquids will grab dust and turn to gunk in the tumblers. A dry lube, either graphite or silicon are the only things that should be sprayed into a lock.