Internal Engine Lubrication:
It is important that the internal parts of an engine are properly lubricated.
A special steam oil is used as discussed below. The steam oil is injected into the steam before it enters the engine by using a displacement lubricator. Following is a cut away section that shows the inside of an “in line” version.
All three of the MSM products have the critical element of a “spray bar”. This has a small hole in it, pointing down. When the correct level of steam oil is added, the steam passing through the spray bar, collects a minute amount of steam oil and condenses some steam to water. This condensate, being denser than the steam oil, goes to the bottom of the oil chamber and lifts the oil to make it available for further collection by the passing steam.
The purpose of the three MSM models is outlined beneath their figures for your reference.
A non-adjustable in line model, for special steam plant configurations, particularly for custom plants with the TVR1 Slide Valve engine
An adjustable model, used on all slide-valve engines. It is adjustable to allow the correct setting of steam oil use for the different amounts of steam oil required for twin and single- cylinder engines, consistent with the design objectives of the “Big 4” engines.
The third incorporates a steam cock (valve) and is used on oscillating engines.
External Engine Lubrication:
The industry wide description for the product to be used is called "Light Machine Oil" - which covers a very, very, very wide range of lubricants. For those seeking a local supply of a suitable oil it will be generally identified as a "clear stainless oil for sewing machines." It is NOT an oil used in motor vehicle engines.
In their simplest form, instructions for lubricating model engines and other items that have moving parts is like the instructions given to new army recruits years ago:
"If it moves, salute it - if it doesn't move, paint it!"
The analogy here is almost the inverse:
"If it rubs on another part, oil it - if it doesn't, ignore it"!
The oil cup shown below is fitted on "Big 4" engines where appropriate and is obvious:
Many components being driven by cams that have small holes in their hubs for oiling, but generally you need to drop a little oil on every component that rubs on another, where the rubbing occurs. It does not need to be a flood of oil just a drop in the right spot can do the job. It's up to you to find the right spot.
Caution:
- "WD40 is not a lubricant". It seems to be considered as a "cleaner" - or some such other form of words, but it is frequently advised that it should not be used as an engine lubricant.
- The oil brand "Three in One" was also isolated as not being suitable for the purpose being discussed here.
Irrespective of your choice of oil remember "If it moves, oil it!"