more bearing lubricants

[Paul McCloud]

Having had a member of our chapter expelled for (over)use of bearing
lubes, I would be very cautious about their use.  Some friction over
bearing points is necessary to stability.  Steinway uprights especially
have too little bearing friction at the pressure bar which makes setting
the pin extremely critical.
    The gentleman who was removed from the Guild used various heavy
oil-based Teflon engine additives (Tribotech, Slick 50, etc.)  He used
it liberally on bridges and other bearing points, felts, you name it.  I
don't think he used it near the tuning pins, but we have evidence (old
pinblock) of oil contamination in the block.  Sparing use of non oil
based solvents which dry completely should be enough to do the job where
the string doesn't render easily (old strings which have little
elasticity left).  Any residue left over from such lubricants should be
non-oily, and non-silicone based.  When in doubt, do without.  My 2
cents FWIW.
    Paul McCloud