What type of lube do you use on your HF 12x36?

HMF

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What do you lube with?

The manual says to use a gear oil.

What about a 30wt non detergent for oiling the headstock, apron and ways? Am I looking for trouble or should I try to find the Mobile DTE light and the Mobile Vactra?

Thanks,

Nelson
 
I agree with Ed. Unfortunately when I bought my lathe, someone recommended the Mobil DTE Light so that's what I bought. It's much too thin IMO and it flows like water. :(

When I run out I'll be replacing it with the DTE Heavy Medium.

I use the Vactra #2 on the lathe AND the mill. Good stuff.
 
Mobil Vactra #2 is not as good in some peoples opinion as Mobil Vacuoline 1409. I always found that Vactra would just disappear after awhile. I am still using Vactra as that is what I currently have. I will check things out when it is time to get more.

I have not formed an opinion yet as I just do not know. :-\
 
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Yes, on my home lathe, Vactra is fine as I hit the lathe everytime I use it. Vactra is easy to find. Vacuoline is hard to find. That is about the extent of my research.
 
Mix 5 parts STP oil treatment with 1 part hypoid gear oil or motor oil and a bit of Moly powder or moly oil. Best way lube around!
 
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