Cargo and Automotive FAQs

Q: Where can I find the instruction sheet of my Master Lock product?

A:

Bungees
For straps:
-Lashing straps model # 3110, 3111, 3112, 3379 
-Lashing straps model # 4362, 4363, 4364 
-Spring clam tie downs model # 3113, 3380, 3062 
-Spring clam tie downs model # 3065
-Spring clam tie downs model # 4368, 4369, 4370
-Ratchet tie downs model # 3223, 3108, 3109, 3066, 3069, 3056
-Ratchet tie downs model # 3057, 3378
-Ratchet tie downs model # 3058, 3059
-Ratchet tie downs model # 3234, 3236
-Ratchet tie downs model # 4365, 4366, 4367, 4371
-Ratchet tie downs model # 4359, 4360 
-Retractable ratchet tie downs model # 3238, 3248 
-Carry strap model # 3123, 3124, 3126
Steering wheel locks:
-Model # 249, 263256
Garage Protector:
-Model # 14881490
Universal trailer lock
Floor/wall anchor points

Q: I lost the keys for my steering wheel lock / pedal to wheel lock. Is it possible to obtain new keys?

A:

No, unfortunately we cannot provide you separated keys for this reference.

Q: My locks freeze in the winter. What can I do?

A:

Lubricate your locks with Master Lock recommended lock lubricant 2300D. Master Lock’s lock lubricant 2300D is specially formulated to not only prevent your locks from corroding, but the formula also prevents moisture from condensing inside the lock, which greatly reduces the likelihood your lock will freeze due to cold weather. View proper care and service of Master Lock Products.

Q: How to choose the correct strap for my application?

A:

When selecting products to secure a load, consideration should be given to the required lashing capacity and whether the load is being transported.  The size, shape & weight of the load and transportation environment if applicable should also be taken into consideration.
For stability reasons freestanding units of load have to be secured with a minimum of 2 lashings and 2 pairs of web lashings for diagonal lashings.
The selected lashing system should be both strong enough and of the correct length for the mode of use. Basic lashing rules:
- Plan the fitting and removal before starting a journey;
- Keep in mind that during journeys parts of the load may have to be unloaded;
- Calculate the number of web lashings according to EN 12195-1/1995;
- Only those web lashings designed for frictional lashing
- Check the tension force periodically, especially shortly after starting the journey.

Q: I lost the keys to my Master Lock lock and don't know the key number. Will Master Lock send me a replacement?

A:

No. Without the key number, there is no way for Master Lock to know which key will open your lock. There is not a master key that will open all Master Lock products.

Q: I lost the keys for my garage protector lock. Is it possible to obtain new keys?

A:

Yes, you can obtain new key blank for your garage protector by ordering the K7000BOX

Q: How does the "$1000 anti-theft guarantee" work in Europe?

A:

Unfortunately, this warranty is only available in the United States and is not available on the Master Lock Europe website or in Europe.

Q: When to use a ratchet tie down?

A:

We recommend to use ratchet tie downs on loads which lashing capacity is between 150 and 2250kg

Q: Can I order a new Master Lock lock that will work with my existing key?

A:

Most lock models have an option to match an existing key when ordering new locks. With a wide variety of locks Master Lock offers, we recommend contacting a distributor or our call center for confirmation.

Q: Will Master Lock reimburse me for locksmith charges?

A:

No. Master Lock does not reimburse for locksmith charges.

Q: When to use a spring clam tie down?

A:

We recommend to use spring clam tie downs on loads which lashing capacity is between 150 and 600kg

Q: My hardware store no longer provides key replacement. Can I order replacement keys directly from Master Lock?

A:

We do not supply replacement keys directly to customers. Instead, you may try another hardware store in your area or contacting a locksmith to see if they can produce a replacement key.

Q: Can I buy additional keys for my lock directly from Master Lock?

A:

Master Lock does not provide keys directly to consumers; however, you may take one of your keys to a local hardware store, home center or locksmith where they can cut duplicate keys. Please note that not every store will have the appropriate key blanks available. Please call ahead.

Q: When to use a lashing strap?

A:

We recommend to use lashing straps on loads which lashing capacity is between 65 and 150kg

Q: My hardware store could not get a new key for my lock. What should I do?

A:

Check with a local locksmith to see if they can duplicate a replacement key. Sometimes, replacement keys are not available for every model of lock. If this is the case, you may need to purchase a new lock.

Q: My key no longer turns, what can I do?

A:
 
Your product is equipped with a disc cylinder which has the particularity to bring more security against picking. However, in order to insert your key into the cylinder, it is necessary that all the disks are perfectly aligned and that the key is fully inserted into the cylinder before turning it.
We invite you to try this on your Master Lock product and contact us if the problem persists.

Q: When to use a strap with plastic buckle?

A:

We recommend to use straps with a plastic buckle on loads which lashing capacity does not exceed 40kg

Q: Can Master Lock keep a record of my combination or key number for me?

A:

Yes! You can store your combination and/or key numbers at masterlockvault.com - a FREE service from Master Lock! The Master Lock Vault provides a safe & convenient place to store all of your confidential data for quick & easy access from your PC, iPhone, or any other mobile devices! 

Q: How to insert the strap inside the ratchet?

A:

Please read and obey all warnings and instruction sheets for a safer use

Q: Master Lock issued a replacement for my product. When will I receive it?

A:

Generally, you should receive the replacement product in 2-4 weeks. This time may vary depending on the product.

Q: How to insert the strap inside the buckle?

A: Please read and obey all warnings and instruction sheets for a safer use

Q: There is too much webbing on the ratchet, how to release it?

A:

We recommend to limit the number of pivot of the ratchet handle to prevent jam on the mechanism.
If too much webbing is filling ratchet reel, start procedure over, first removing all slack from webbing over load.

Q: How can I fix a Master Lock padlock that only opens occasionally or is difficult to open?

A:

Watch our lock maintenance video or view our Care & Service guide. If your lock still does not function properly, it may be defective. Refer to our Warranty Information to find out how to obtain a replacement lock.

Q: Is the product certified? Which certification?

A:

All of our straps are compliant with the European norm EN 12195-2. This norm is an European standard that specifies safety requirements and methods for testing web lashings for securing loads on vehicles. 
All of our bungees are compliant with the Standard EK5/AK8. This standard is a German rule that specifies the test safety requirements and methods for testing elastic cords under tension.
Most of them are TUV certified. TÜVs  (short for Technischer Überwachungs-Verein, Technical Inspection Association in English) are German organizations that work to validate the safety of products of all kinds to protect humans and the environment against hazards. As independent consultants, they examine and monitoring tie downs and bungees.

Q: How to choose the correct bungee cord for my application?

A:

Please always refer to the resistance of the product for the correct use.

Q: My strap / bungee is cut / torn / nicked, what do I do?

A:

Straps / bungees should be rejected if they show any sign of damage. 
The following criteria are considered to be signs of damage :
- If there is any accidental contact with chemical products.
- For web lashings and cords: tears, cuts, nicks and breaks in load bearing resulting from exposure to heat.
- For end fittings and tensioning devices: deformations, splits, pronounced signs of wear, signs of corrosion.

Q: My lock was difficult to open, and it had to be cut off. Will Master Lock replace my lock?

A:

All Master Lock padlocks are warranted to be free from mechanical defects for the life of the product. If a mechanical defect occurs, we will replace it free of charge. See Master Lock product warranty.

Q: Is there a protection to prevent damaging the strap from friction?

A:

The webbing shall be protected against friction, abrasion, and damage from loads with sharp edges by using protective sleeves and/or corner protectors.