Hi All,  Regarding D.L. Bullock's recent comments about saturating
the brake pads with oil or grease, I offer the following.  (Lynn and
I have corresponded privately about this matter, and I leave it to
the reader to make up their own mind.)

First, Lynn admits that 'saturating' was a bad choice of words.  He
says that a drop or two of oil is sufficient.  Secondly, his rationale
for oiling the pads is based on comments made by other technicians
(his mentors) during his early years as a rebuilder.  Thirdly, he has
no written evidence to support his technique/position.

In my opinion, oil should never be used on the pads.  My supporting
evidence is the absence of any information to the contrary.  In other
words, since no manufacturer ever stated that using oil or grease on
the pads was something that should be done as a part of routine
maintenance, it should never be done.

What troubles me most about oiling or greasing the pads is that once
it's done, it will HAVE to be done over and over again.  Oil and grease
are 'dust magnets' and they get sticky and/or hard as they age.  This
fact is certain to cause problems somewhere down the road.

My advice: Keep the pads and brake drum clean and you'll never have
a problem...

Musically,

John A Tuttle
Player-Care.com
Brick, New Jersey, USA

 [ The Ampico Service Manual 1929 recommends that the music roll brake
 [ band (linen?) "be lubricated with dry graphite."  -- Robbie