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Will lockers seize if left on anchor?

Original Post
Keel Elan · · Vienna, AT · Joined Jan 2020 · Points: 247

Hi all, I have a couple of Metolius locking steel carabiners. I'm wondering whether I can leave them up on an anchor---or if doing so will make them seize up. Since the anchor is only used for TR-ing (and I don't mind people TR-ing straight off the hardware in this case), it would be cool to have lockers for people to use, but obviously not if they're just going to just become a closed system within the year.

The crag is not by the sea.

Jim Titt · · Germany · Joined Nov 2009 · Points: 490

In my experience they are finished after the first rainy period, grit washes into the open barrel and that's it.

timothy fisher · · CHARLOTTE · Joined Nov 2017 · Points: 30

If the rock overhangs above the anchor you might get away with it. otherwise... what Mr. Titt said.

Doctor Drake · · Unknown Hometown · Joined May 2018 · Points: 126

What would be a good alternative connector to use if:

  • you know it's going to get wet 
  • it has to be outside
  • you will need to periodically disconnect it

I was considering a stainless shackle as a potential alternative, but could the threads for the pin have the same problems? 

I don't have much experience with stainless quicklinks outside—would they also have problems seizing?

Would an auto locker like the Petzl Oxan Triact seize as readily?

timothy fisher · · CHARLOTTE · Joined Nov 2017 · Points: 30

Carbon steel quick links are bad for needing to be cut off. I have not had that experience with stainless ones. Stainless shackles maybe even less likely to be a problem . The standard ones need a method to retain a loose pin like stainless safety wire. For the ones like team tough/ bolt products sell you would need a supply of stainless cotter pins. 

Guideline #1: Don't be a jerk.

Fixed Hardware: Bolts & Anchors
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