LawrenceNov 6

I have one of those old school Hills Hoist which I love. The crank mechanism though had been clunky even back 10+ years ago.

I had this plan to refurbish it from way back, but I wasn't sure if I can handle the weight of the hoist when I strip it down.

Today I had a look again, and it's the first time I noticed there's a hole for oiling the mechanism which I've never noticed before.

I'm an engineer, ladies and gentlemen. Don't trust engineers to be practical.

Show threadRae
@IBLiveU did oiling it work? And did you use WD40 or silicone
Nov 7 at 6:49amWeb
Show threadLawrenceNov 7

@rae Yes it did, much better than I expected actually. I know WD40 isn't a lubricant but I had it on hand. After liberal application I managed to turn the crank; then after a few cycles I could turn it easily. I was expecting grit or rust inside that may still be a problem but I can't feel anything when I am turning it now.

My original plan was to open it up and try to grease pack it. But if I can get by with WD40 every few years I'll take that.