Canopy Rail Lube

ghatch · #1 03-16-2012, 11:46 AM

What is anyone using to lube the canopy rails and/or canopy rail rollers on sliders?
I have an RV-7 slider. I live in West Texas and a dusty environment is the norm.

Thanks for your input,
Gerry

F1Boss · #2 03-16-2012, 01:26 PM

I think a teflon type lube will be best. Not one of the ones that stays wet, or waxy - one of those that dries up. My wife found a liquid teflon substance that was packaged in what would be an Elmer's glue sort of squeeze bottle (@ Lowe's). Sounds perfect for the wheels, and could be wiped on the spine rail as required. I have not stolen it from the kitchen - yet...

Carry on!
Mark

Rick_A · #3 03-16-2012, 02:27 PM

I don't remember the brand, but I use a dry type lube that I bought at a bicycle shop.

While you're there, pick up some Tri-flow to use on rod-end bearing and other flight control hinge points.

humptybump · #4 03-16-2012, 02:43 PM

My A&P recommended a small amount of silicone spray.

Rosie · #5 03-16-2012, 09:28 PM

I live in the Mojave desert and have recommended this before for rod end bearings but also use it on my slider rails: LPS-1

Rosie

az_gila · #6 03-16-2012, 10:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rosie

I live in the Mojave desert and have recommended this before for rod end bearings but also use it on my slider rails: LPS-1

Rosie

Rosie, might not be good in other parts of the country.

I think LPS-1 acts like WD-40, displaces the water and allows the part to rust quicker once it disappears. The description you linked to does say "Provides a short term, light corrosion resistant barrier."

It should be fine in the Mojave and AZ deserts though...

Sig600 · #7 03-17-2012, 04:14 AM

You could try a very small amount of carbon graphite, like whats used in locks, if you're in a dry dusty place.

If you're a gun nut, a tiny amount of CLP will also go a long way to not only lube but protect the exposed metal.

bird · #8 03-17-2012, 05:59 AM

Triflow. Probably, keeping it clean is the most important part.

bird

flynwest · #9 03-17-2012, 07:16 AM

If you have not painted yet do not use silicone. Your paint will not stick to it. My painter will not allow any silicone in his shop.

ghatch · #10 03-17-2012, 08:22 AM

Thanks guys. I have Tri-Flow, LPS 1&2, CLP, CorrosionX. All of which I have used before. I think I will check out the Lowes stuff suggested and the dry lube from bike shop. Everything I have used previously has collected dirt and made the track gritty. I fly from my West Texas grass (dirt if it doesn't rain) which adds to the problem.
Thanks again for all your help,
Gerry