Protecting A Lathe Stored In The Garage

I have a lot of humidity & temperature change issues. Sometimes so bad that the entire floor in my closed garage will become wet.

From my experience:
1. Completely clean the machine.
2. Apply a thin coat of oil or light grease to the bare metal details. I use gear oil, hydraulic oil and ep1 grease, because I've got a lot of it.
3. Cover the machine with a bed sheet, or a bunch of rags. Cotton preferred. This will keep condensation out.
4. Place a plastic tarp over the cloth cover. This will keep the cloth dry.

I won't claim it's the best way, but it has worked well on my stuff for years.
 
The gentleman who I aquired my machine from advised a periodic wipe down with a 5w20 or 30 motor oil and cover with cotton sheet or rags, that is what he does with his and he doesn't have an issue with rust.
 
I have been using Starret M1 spray with good results. Goes on thin and sticks without getting sticky.
 
Have to go through this every winter. I just apply a liberal amount of whatever oil is closest...usually motor oil of some kind.

I'll take the Chuck and squares and what not into the basement.
 
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