What is the poor mans lube for O rings?

[passive101]

What is the poor mans lube for o rings on flashlights?

 

[Haz]

...um, i assume it will be saliva

 

[passive101]

...um, i assume it will be saliva

Ok cheap and efficient and keep an o ring alive

 

[Haz]

I've been using Vaseline (Petroleum Jelly) on my maglite for years and have never dissolved an O-ring to the point of disintegrating or breaking apart. It's cheap and has worked, even Maglite recommends it too
http://www.maglite.com/faq_details.asp?faqProd=D

I have heard people using chap-stick to lubricate the o-ring as well.

If you are able to find some dielectric grease, they are economical as well.

I use Nyogel, a small tube I have has lasted for 3 years, and is still 90% full. When you factor in how long it last, it works out very economical

 

[hiker123]

What about mineral oil?
On my MSR stove that is what they recommend for the o-rings. I figure a lot more could go wrong with the stove if the o-rings failed then a flashlight but I'm curious just the same as to what others think about it or their experience.
Cheers

 

[Norm]

Additional 'O ring lube information for our lights]
Thread and O-Ring lubrication
best lubricant for Surefire threads and O-rings?
O ring lube google

 

[CaNo]

Go to your local hardware store near the plumbing section. Look for "Silicone Grease". Make sure it does not contain Petroleum Jelly. This I found is perfect for protecting O-rings, easier twisting among threads, and not to mention it cost me $2.91 with tax included :thumbsup:. I've used it on all 12 of my flashlights, and it there is so much, it looks like I have not even touched it at all! This IS the poor man's lube ... that delivers...

 

[DM51]

There have been many threads on O-ring and other lubes, although few have had titles quite as fatuous as this one. It's closed.