Several gents on the Practical Machinist "South Bend" lathe BBS have related their experience using 0W-20 or 5W-20 Mobil 1 synthetic oil. They use it in the headstock reservoir to lubricate the spindle via the capillary action of the two vertical spring wound wicks. Reportedly, the spindle runs cooler with the thin synthetic oil than with the traditionally recommended headstock lubricants.

Last edited by Ian Nixon; 02/11/10 03:36 AM.