ElDequello: normally I would agree with you about humidity causing the lock to stick. However I live in Phoenix, Arizona. Humidity isn't much of a problem here

Greatidea about using sticks to push the lock out after removing the screws. I'll hunt around the garage tonight and see if there isn't something appropriate that will work. I would wiggle the cock to losen the lock, but I'm afraid I'll torque out the screw that holds my cock in place. (man that really sounds bad!)

Will follow-up with results.

~Robert