Oil for micrometers

I have been given by people retiring, and bought over the past few years, quite a few mitutoyo micrometers, which i adore to use, I really like them.

Some are imperial, and while i use them reasonably often, the larger sizes don't get used as much. Taking a 4-5 inch mic out the other day i noticed it has seized slightly and was stiff.

When i get a mic, i normally wash the dismantled parts in acetone to get rid of the fluff and grit, dry them, and then oil the screws and barrels with some light oil like 3-in-1.

Its obviously is not good enough, what are you using ?

Never use 3-in-1 or similar 'household oil' because it will oxidise over time into "gum".
If you really feel the need to lubricate the micrometers then use a good quality clock oil like "Moebus".
Don't be tempted to buy cheap unbranded watch & clock oil, it can be as bad as the household stuff for gumming up the works ~ as I once found

Read the recent thread on 3 in 1 oil for the reasons. All may be revealed, along with alternatives.

Clock or sewing machine oil.

... Why not use 'Micrometer Oil' ?

Readily available from both Mitutoyo and Starrett, at prices higher than generic 'Sewing Machine Oil' and lower than Moebius or Nye 'Clock Oils'.

MichaelG.

Gun oil should work ok too. No idea how it compares in price in the UK.

I have used the 'dry' ptfe spray with success. Nothing to oxidise and it gives a good 'feel' for me.
Price varies from £3 to £30 per can, I happened to have some wd40 ptfe in the shed left over from a job.

I use this:

**LINK**

Rik

Thanks for the replies, i'll look into the clock and watch oil, its difficult to buy any oil near me, no more bicycle shops, engineers suppliers or decent hardwares. Thank gawd for mail order.