I'd like to propose a collection of useful and related tips on lubricants.
We can gather any and all information in this thread, just as it comes. I'd expect it to be posted quite haphazardly and then later we can sort it out into a fairly authoritative little permanent SlotForum resource that anyone can refer to in future.
We appear to have two basic types
GREASES
OILS
Opinions on the uses of aerosol types would be interesting, though in our small scale I tend to think they are not very practical. However, someone might well have good ideas for some of these products - let's hear about them!
Molybdenum, lithium, synthetic, natural, di-electric, plastic UNfriendly are words that immediately spring to mind. I think it is essential that we should have a list of lubricants that are KNOWN to be damaging to plastics. I suspect some oils can attack plastic commutators and possibly dissolve the insulation off comm windings. Please throw in your own favourites and UNfavourites too.
Which lubricant is most suitable for particular purposes?
For instance, I just laid my hands on a pair of tiny Ninco ball-races and I haven't a clue what is the most suitable lubricant for them - grease or oil, what type and how much of it?
Where to locate these products in the first place and in small quantities in particular?
For instance, 'Greasy Faeces 40' might or might not be the greatest all-round lubricant in the world but, if only available from Tierra del Fuego in 200 litre drums @ £1,000 a shot, plus delivery charges, not too practical for the lone slottist! A 50ml tube from your local B & Q might be a better alternative, but does that alternative actually exist? Several specialist products available in USA might or might not be available in UK/Europe and might or might not use the same name.
Cheaper alternatives to big brand names would be useful info.
Let's hear about prices.
Even opinions on the best non-leak hypodermic type applicator would be really useful. For instance, some of them leak quite badly if not kept bolt upright and, even if they are, expansion through heat can blow their load all over the contents of your slot box - MESSY!
We can gather any and all information in this thread, just as it comes. I'd expect it to be posted quite haphazardly and then later we can sort it out into a fairly authoritative little permanent SlotForum resource that anyone can refer to in future.
We appear to have two basic types
GREASES
OILS
Opinions on the uses of aerosol types would be interesting, though in our small scale I tend to think they are not very practical. However, someone might well have good ideas for some of these products - let's hear about them!
Molybdenum, lithium, synthetic, natural, di-electric, plastic UNfriendly are words that immediately spring to mind. I think it is essential that we should have a list of lubricants that are KNOWN to be damaging to plastics. I suspect some oils can attack plastic commutators and possibly dissolve the insulation off comm windings. Please throw in your own favourites and UNfavourites too.
Which lubricant is most suitable for particular purposes?
For instance, I just laid my hands on a pair of tiny Ninco ball-races and I haven't a clue what is the most suitable lubricant for them - grease or oil, what type and how much of it?
Where to locate these products in the first place and in small quantities in particular?
For instance, 'Greasy Faeces 40' might or might not be the greatest all-round lubricant in the world but, if only available from Tierra del Fuego in 200 litre drums @ £1,000 a shot, plus delivery charges, not too practical for the lone slottist! A 50ml tube from your local B & Q might be a better alternative, but does that alternative actually exist? Several specialist products available in USA might or might not be available in UK/Europe and might or might not use the same name.
Cheaper alternatives to big brand names would be useful info.
Let's hear about prices.
Even opinions on the best non-leak hypodermic type applicator would be really useful. For instance, some of them leak quite badly if not kept bolt upright and, even if they are, expansion through heat can blow their load all over the contents of your slot box - MESSY!
