Lubing Traveler Balls

[Quickstep192]

I noticed my traveler starting to stick a bit and washed it out with dish soap and lots of fresh water.

Once it’s dry, what the most appropriate lubricant?

 

[ExOmo]

Block & Traveler Maintenance

Less maintenance = more friction = less efficiencyBlock and traveler maintenance isn't something that springs to mind as the most exciting of projects, and for many sailors this may be something that gets put to the bottom of the to do list. Well it shouldn't!And considering the loads our blocks...

www.harken.com

 

[Gouvernail]

My first windward sheeting traveler car was acquired at about two years of age and the flattened balls blew out in the second regatta we sailed.
After replacing the balls, I occasionally squirted TriFlow to both rinse out dirt and lubricate.
That was in 1986. I really don’t care if there is a better way.

 

[yoyo]

As ExOmo posted. Cleaning and flushing with soap and water - both the car and track. It's surprising how much better things work with just a proper cleaning. Add one-drop after. You use so little that the tube may last a lifetime - share with friends.

 

[Quickstep192]

It’s going to be tough for me to use just one drop. I’m a “more is better” kinda guy.

 

[Marty Gingras]

It’s going to be tough for me to use just one drop. I’m a “more is better” kinda guy.

If you buy the little tube like I did, the top will pop off unexpectedly and you'll have no choice.

 

[Max Rockatansky]

It’s going to be tough for me to use just one drop. I’m a “more is better” kinda guy.

OneDrop Ball Bearing Conditioner and Lubricant - For Everything That Rolls - McLube

 

[Quickstep192]

I got and applied the McLube One Drop.

My fingertips aren’t exactly a petrochemical analysis lab, but McLube One Drop feels a lot like a lightweight sewing machine or gun oil to me. But, I’m sure it contains special boat additives.

 

[Bump-n-Grind]

do not under any circumstances put WD40 on any ball bearings on a sailboat unless they are steel in a steel race and already corroded beyond belief.
all those little bits and bobs with ball bearings in em should be rinsed out with fresh water frequently. Salt crystals will form around them if left to dry with salt water on them and it will chew them up in a hurry.

https://gallery.harken.com/gallery/7875onedropmsdseng.pdf

 

[Quickstep192]

Further to BnG’s point, I improved the movement of the traveler car the most just by washing it. The lube was kind of icing.