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Lubricating Electric Motors
By Spencer Chase

Oils have definitely improved in the last hundred years, with the
possible exception of sperm oil, which is, of course, not available
today.  Synthetic oils have better thin-film lubricating properties, do
not oxidize as quickly (maybe even never) and do not absorb moisture as
do other oils.

It is not a good idea to mix oils, although most synthetic oils claim
to be compatible with conventional oils.  Still, I would remove all
traces of the old oil and use a good synthetic oil of suitable
viscosity.  If a synthetic oil made specifically for electric motors
cannot be found, an automotive engine oil should be fine (others may
know of reasons that this is not a good idea).

I have been using various brands of oil obtained from bicycle shops.  I
buy the general purpose oils, not the ones for chains, as these are
really gummy and might not flow into tight spaces.

Whatever you do, do not use 3-in-1 oil or let WD-40 get anywhere near
your motor.

Spencer Chase
Garberville, CA
http://www.spencerserolls.com


(Message sent Wed 16 Jan 2013, 16:59:27 GMT, from time zone GMT-0800.)

Key Words in Subject:  Electric, Lubricating, Motors

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