Applying “Liquid Bearings” to restore the travel movement to a dial indicator

**Paul Jones** · Dec 20, 2014, 10:06 PM

My 0” to 2” dial indicator was becoming more sluggish when measuring near the first 0” to 0.3” ranges. The dial indicator would not consistently return to zero when measuring near its low end of travel. This dial indicator is almost 20 years old and has never been repaired or lubricated. I removed the back cover to the dial indicator and confirmed there was still measurable tension in the return springs, all the springs were still attached, and the gears looked very clean. I decided to lubricate the pivot bushings, a jeweled bearing, and an internal brass slider that keeps the rank and pinion aligned as the measurement plunger moves in and out. I used a product named “Liquid Bearings” that is a synthetic oil for clocks. I have used it the restore frozen and sticky movements in antique clocks. The product comes with several fine hollow needles for applying the oil. I prefer to use a 5” length of music wire that has been reduced to a very fine and gradual taper which allows for accurately applying minute drops of oil. This oil application tool is common in watch and clock repairing. The “Liquid Bearings” oil product immediately improved the quickness of the movement and within a few hours totally restored the dial indicator’s sensitivity.

**DIYer** · Dec 22, 2014, 01:10 AM

Great tip on the Liquid Bearings and using music wire. Thanks!

**Paul Jones** · Dec 23, 2014, 07:36 AM

DIYer,
Thanks for the feedback. I will post a few photos and advice for making from music wire the watch and clock oiler. It is one of my oldest homemade tools and has proven to be very useful in all sorts of oil lubrication applications.
Paul