Hi,

A couple of IF slugs on the radio that I am aligning currently are 'sticky' .... they will rotate, but finding the correct position is hindered by the jerky movement .... and I feel that I am putting too much pressure on them. I don't think the problem is dirt or possum p#%ss ... as they all feel the same, top and bottom.

Can these slugs be lubricated ... WD-40?? a thin machine oil???

Any problems re lubricant affecting the slugs or coil former??

Thanks,
Ian

Many years ago I'd use CRC 2.26 which is similar to WD40 I believe and that would work OK. It does start to affect tuning once you get into the VHF region though.

I've never known 2.26 to attack a slug or coil former (but it does kill bugs!)

I don't use WD-40 around any electrical or electronic equipment. The stuff we get in Oz is largely turps.

For seized parts in equipment I generally use minuscule amounts of silicone oil directly on the part itself, not sprayed or squirted willy nilly.

It depends a lot on the vintage of the coils.
If for example they use the standard 1/4 inch ferrites then most used to be held or sealed with wax.
Gentle application of heat blown onto coil would be the go in that case.
Other, or even the waxed ones I would carefully totally remove, clean, lube and reinstall.
Re threading the former may also be necessary.
Do not use WD40 spray into coil. It will change the permeability characteristics of the ferrite.
JJ

Hi,

I opted for a drop of silicon ... delicately placed with a syringe .....

.... except for the the really bad Slug which .... well ..... got several 'un'delicately placed drops .... through necessity ... I thought that better than pulling the IF out of the radio and dismantling. All are now moving freely .... but who knows where the alignment of my radio is now ......

Thanks,
Ian