Regulator lubrication...?

[Deleted]

Hello All,

This by Don Young on how to make the regulator for his 7.25 'Newport'.

"The fulcrum bolt is turned up from 4BA hexagon stainless steel bar: assemble with washers and spring to lightly grind the valve onto its seat, washing away the grinding paste with paraffin and then applying a little molybdenum disulphide grease as a lubricant." The italics are mine.

Does this mean that Molyslip is a suitable lubricant for a Stroudley regulator that's already fitted to a working engine? As far as I can see Don doesn't later suggest getting rid of the grease.

Edit: Perhaps I should say that I'm talking about the linkage, not the port face which I'll leave well alone as it's steam tight. Just stiff.

As ever, all comments welcome.

Regards,

Gareth.

[baggo]

Hi gareth,

What happens is that the molybdenum disulphide bonds itself to the metal surfaces and forms a 'skin' which protects and lubricates the metal surfaces. It doesn't wash off and so stays there.

Don recommended the use of molybdenum disulphide grease when fitting piston valves for the same reason.

I don't see any why the grease can't be used on an existing lubricator?

John

[Deleted]

Thanks Baggo, as ever you've got to the nub of the problem.

I guess the question I should have asked is, "Will putting M.D. in my boiler produce any nasties, like priming?"

Thanks again,

G.