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Old 02-16-2014, 09:17 PM   #1
donQ
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Default distributor lubrication

What is the proper oil to use when lubricating the distributor? I've been using 3 in 1 oil. Also is there an easier way to get the oil into the oiler (A12135)? It's hard to get the oil into the distributor and also into the front bearing on the generator with the oil can. Maybe an eye dropper would work?

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Old 02-16-2014, 09:25 PM   #2
heneste
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Default Re: distributor lubrication

I've always been told to just use a light oil as in 3 in 1 or sewing machine oil.

Some of the 3 in 1 oil containers are now shaped like an oil can with a retractable spout which makes it easy to put the oil in the small fitting.

You can also fit a small section of hose on the end of your 3 in 1 oil can (say a small section of washer line or gas line hose for small engines)
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Old 02-16-2014, 09:26 PM   #3
Drive Shaft Dave
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Default Re: distributor lubrication

Just fill up the oiler untill it wont' take any more, regular eng. oil. A few drops on the front bearing , unles it's been changed to a sealed bearing. Twice a summer work's good for me.
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Old 02-16-2014, 10:17 PM   #4
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Default Re: distributor lubrication

The Book of Les recommends regular crankcase oil, such as SAE 30 wt. I use a very small refillable oiler oil can made for oiling sewing machines, fishing reels and the like. Works on other hard-to-reach places as well. I've tried a syringe and that works too.

Mike

Last edited by 29er; 02-16-2014 at 11:06 PM.
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Old 02-16-2014, 10:35 PM   #5
RonC
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Default Re: distributor lubrication

An oiler with bulb end will allow you to open the generator oil cap behind the pulley. This end is designed to flip open oil caps.
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Old 02-16-2014, 10:39 PM   #6
Marco Tahtaras
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Default Re: distributor lubrication

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I would think a low viscosity oil like 3 in 1 would need to be repeated almost daily.

I've used motor oil forever. I oil it when the engine is cool and stuff a rag in there to pick up the inevitable drips. It takes a little patience with a good distributor as the air that is being displaced comes back out the same oiler as bubbles through your oil and it needs to settle a few times during the process.

That last point is interesting as I think about it now. Many folks can't see how the oil can travel upward and lubricate the upper bushing as it appears to defy gravity. If the upper bushing were dry the air would simply escape through the upper bushing and no air bubbles would force their way back out the oiler!
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Last edited by Marco Tahtaras; 02-17-2014 at 06:06 PM.
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Old 02-17-2014, 05:54 PM   #7
donQ
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Default Re: distributor lubrication

In view of Marco's comments and the Les Andrews recommendation I may go to 30 wt oil from now on. I will try to come up with a better oiler as suggested by Ron C and 29er.
Thanks
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