Flexowriter lubrication

[James Fogg]

> One of my Flexowriters has just had its mains cable replaced and then
> turned on for the first time in about 25 years. Apart from surface
> rust and the printing levers not going back down, and the ribbon
> breaking, it seemed to work fine. Does anyone know what grade(s) of
> oils/greases to use on which parts? The rubber parts and carriage
> return band even seem good but would probably not appreciate dunking
> the whole thing in oil. I guess WD40 or "3 in 1" oil would be out
> because I've been told they both leave a residue. I have not seen
> anyone selling 'light machine oil' for a few years here in the UK but
> there must be a modern version surely.


Sewing machine oil is a good choice. I have no specific experience with
the Flexowriter, but with typewriters in general. You need a very light
oil that doesn't gum up and doesn't attract dirt.

WD40 isn't really a good lubricant for anything, but does an excellent job
of cleaning parts and stripping oils and gums.

A heavy oil won't reach tiny clearances and will attract much more filth.
Sewing machines share the same challenges as typewriters, including an
environment where there is "fluff" generated. Thread constantly sheds tiny
fibers and so does paper.

-- 
James -
Certified autodidactic polymath and proud of it!