Glyn,
I've had much better luck with PB Blaster than WD 40 or any other product.
Pete
All,
> I bought a vintage Zip Dee awning (with the logo cast into the ends) on
> eBay recently and can't seem to unfreeze one of the telescoping arms. It's
> the pair made up of a 1" boxed tube that slides into another one with a pin
> stop to hold it on place when stowed.
>
> I've spoken to Randy at Zip Dee who offered that all he does in these
> cases is to use WD 40 to loosen them. Alas, I've tried that, even using
> Gunk brand penetrating oil too. Currently the assembly has been soaking in
> a one gallon bath of white vinegar in the hope that any mineral buildup
> might get dissolved away. That doesn't seem to be working either as in two
> days I've been able to pound them apart only about 1 1/2" with about 3' to
> go.
>
> Has anyone else faced this dilemma? Anyone have an idea or two?
>
> That bath I spoke of consists of a 5' length of 4" ABS pipe capped on
> both ends with a 2" open slit cut the length of the pipe. I mention this on
> the chance that someone will suggest some form of soaking to release the two
> boxed tubes.
>
> Thanks in advance,