what grease/oil for micrometer?

[n8n]

In my possession I have a "Central" 1-2" micrometer that apparently has seen some use and abuse, would like to completely disassemble and clean it.

What should I use to lube the barrel when I put it back together, or doesn't it really matter?

I know new ones are cheap but I got this for free and don't have another one this size.

 

[MetricTech]

The lightest oil available in my experience will still be too much for the ultra fine threads on the micrometer spindle. When you disassemble it clean the whole thing with something like wd40 and you can use a good polish on the non threaded surfaces. When you are satisfied you will need to clean every bit of grit and light oil back off of everything before assembly. That’s the best I got I hope it helps


Metric Tech

 

[jsmeece]

I have used sewing machine oil before with good results. That stuff is pretty thin.
I think 3-in-1 oil would work too.

 

[davethorik]

Starrett oil is what I use (light mineral oil)

 

[n8n]

Don't have sewing machine oil, but maybe Tri-Flow then?

 

[rlitman]

Tri-Flow would be fine.

 

[d.mcfarland]

Gun oil or air tool oil would work too.

Synthetic if possible would be my choice.

 

[Ign]

https://www.mscdirect.com/product/details/86426756?rItem=86426756

 

[MetricTech]

I didn’t want to steer you wrong with my reply earlier. IMO cleaning the threads and having smooth surfaces will give you a good result. You can even adjust the spindle tension, but if your model has a ratchet I wouldn’t. If it is manual stop then you can adjust it to your feel. A bit of light oil won’t hurt just don’t get carried away because too much will give you tight spots while rotating the thimble


Metric Tech

 

[davethorik]

https://www.mscdirect.com/product/details/86426756?rItem=86426756

Yep, that's the stuff. The bottle lasts forever too, to lube a mic maybe 2-3 drops. I bought a bottle probably 8 years ago and it's about 1/4 gone. Use it on other stuff too, handy to keep in the tool box.

 

[rlitman]

Yep, that's the stuff. The bottle lasts forever too, to lube a mic maybe 2-3 drops. I bought a bottle probably 8 years ago and it's about 1/4 gone. Use it on other stuff too, handy to keep in the tool box.

I bought mine when they still came in a metal bottle. Probably 30 years ago. It's still at least half full.

 

[ganymede]

I've been using 3 In One for years .
Grease or heavy oil are right out. Way too thick.

 

[bob15]

Starrett 1620 oil. http://www.starrett.com/metrology/product-detail/1620

Can be bought on amazon

 

[fsae0607]

^^ Starrett oil for me, too.

$10 on amazon

 

[guy48065]

I use Starrett oil but it looks & feels just like sewing machine oil.

Probably ATF would be fine. Thin enough, without being a penetrant.

 

[crewchief888]

i was always told to use lighter fluid "back in the day"


but, everybody smoked back then...

 

[rlitman]

Lighter fluid is a good cleaner, but it doesn't leave any residue when it evaporates.