Seized turnbuckles

[zoom555]

As I've been doing repairs and running over everything on the boat this spring, I've discovered that several turnbuckles have become quite seized. The standing rigging was replaced by the prior owner about four years ago and is generally in good shape, but the turnbuckles are of the closed variety, which I understand are more prone to seizing because they retain moisture.

In any event, the teflon based lubricant I used for lubrication last year isn't loosening up these seized turnbuckles. Does anyone have a suggestion for what I should try next? (WD-40? Something nastier?)

[max-on]

I would try a penetrating oil made for the job, something like KanoLabs.com. Once undone, I would apply Lanocote Forespar: Marine Products that Perform or a similar product to the turnbuckles.

[knothead]

Use a good penetrant such as PB Blaster or an equivalent product. Apply a squirt at the top of the barrel and in the hole in the center of the barrel every few days for a week or two and then give it a try again. If that doesn't work you may be forced to use a judicious application of heat. Don't get the thing red hot though.
If you are successful in getting them to turn then use your Teflon lube and exercise them once or twice a season.
Next time your re-rig, use bronze open body turnbuckles. With enough neglect they will seize too but not nearly as much as closed body stainless ones will.