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After 15 years of use, one of my Alps mechanical selector switches (metal contact spring dragging across metal tracks) had developed oxidised/dirty contacts.

After some cleaning with alcohol and Kontakt 60 the contacts are once more shiny and the switch is ready to be reassembled. - Just one last issue: should the contact spring which drags across the contact tracks be lubricated or protected against moisture?

If yes, using what? Silicone oil/grease, WD 40, watchmaker's oil? Or is keeping everything dry and clean best?

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  • \$\begingroup\$ Do you have any pictures? For all things in contact (electrical and mechanical) with the rotating assembly, what materials are they made of? \$\endgroup\$
    – shimofuri
    Commented Sep 12, 2013 at 0:55

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If you're worried about corrosion, you could use some form of bulb grease in a very small quantity.

Personally, I would only apply the grease if the device operates in an environment with high humidity or big temperature changes AND is exposed to ambient air.

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When I used to maintain the old Strowger telephone system, we applied a light oil to the contacts of the two-motion selectors and uniselectors. I assume the reason was to reduce wear on the contact banks.

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