"Ask Bud!"

Question:

How often do I need to lubricate my steel?

Answer:

Most steels should be lubricated at least every 6 months. If you are playing 4 to 5 nights a week, it should be lubricated even more often.

You can use 30W motor oil or a lightweight machine oil. Do NOT use any graphite-based products or WD-40 since they will "gum up" your steel and cause operating problems.

(Please Note: Some new steels use a new, non-migrating lubricant and therefore do not require any additional oil. In fact, on such steels, adding oil can wash away these new, non-migrating lubricants. If you want to find out whether you have such a steel, I recommend that you check the " Lubrication" section of your Owner's Manual or contact your manufacturer for lubrication instructions.)

However, for Older Steels and any steels not treated with a non-migrating lubricant, I still recommend using 30W motor oil or a lightweight machine oil.

Therefore, for Carters, other steels for which it is recommended, and for older steels: Use a rod (which has been dipped in oil) to get between the raise and lower fingers. All parts that move and are metal-to-metal contact, including rollers and pedals on the pedal shaft, should be lubricated.

Tip: Try not to use spray products. These are hard to control and will get oil in places where it should not be!

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