Clean out plug button very hard to push

[Volffas]

2007 AR230 I have absolutely no issue getting the plugs in the ports. They come out with no issue as soon as the button is pushed. Pushing the grey button is the issue. Both buttons are to the point that I need to use the butt end of a screwdriver to push them down before the button releases the ears. I took the plugs apart and I can't find any issue that would cause this. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Cobra Jet Steering LLC]

Possibly dirt inside the plug here is a video I made showing how the plug works internally http://youtu.be/KhsnPrWt7nU this may help you figure out what is wrong

 

[Gym]

I boat in salt water so I take my plugs apart each winter soak them in a water/ salt away bath. Then I use white lithium grease on the moving parts. I think the lithium grease is all you need.

 

[buckbuck]

I do the same as @Gym except I don't use salt away. You are fresh water so I would think a good scrub with a tooth brush and some grease and you would be good to go.

 

[merlinjet]

Also helps to spray some silicone lube on the plug after each use; keeps the moving parts moving and the rubber seal soft and pliable.

 

[Whiskey]

Also helps to spray some silicone lube on the plug after each use; keeps the moving parts moving and the rubber seal soft and pliable.

This was huge for me. After some silicone pool lube the plugs go in and out like 'buttah.

 

[Volffas]

Thanks everyone! I will get some silicone lube or lithium grease and spray it on all of the moving parts. I'll let you know how it works.