Cable Lubricator

[RJay]

We all have those wire wound cables with a wire in the center and a "T" handle on one end used to open something. Whether it be to gain access to a generator or to open dump valves, these cables eventually become hard to operate and break. This tool allows lubricant to be directed down the wire keeping the wire sliding freely.

Motorcycle ATV Motion Pro Throttle & Clutch Cable Luber - 08-0182

[Retired and Happy]

Interesting device. Does it really work? Does it force lube in through the side of the cable winding? I've got a sticky hood latch on my old van that needs some help.

[Ray,IN]

I notice in the reviews that no-one has posted about one. If it actually works on plastic-coated cables it is a good item to have in the toolbox.

[RJay]

I use the cable lubricator on the brake and clutch cables on my motorcycle and works pretty good. When I heard some members mention they were having trouble opening the door to the generator because the cable was stuck I thought I would post a link to it. When I went to get it out to lubricate mine I couldn't find it. The viscosity of what you squirt in the cable has a lot to do with how much success you have. I use a special lubricant for my motorcycle cables.

[HarveyP]

I bought something that looks the same from Harbor Freight for 3 bucks. Be aware, you still need a needle end for your grease gun. HarveyP

[powerboatr]

I made a luber for under a dollar
its a piece of clear vinyl tubing just large enough in diameter to fit over the end of the cable after you unscrew the T handle. about a foot long
i slide the tubing over the parts of the pull that sticks out and then add a tablespoon or so of ATF to the tube, then attach the free end to a low pressure air source and valve and inject the fluid. it doesn't take much to get em moving free again

[Brigadoon]

powerboatr, now that's a good idea, thanks!

[Mafiaman]

Any lubricant that contains petroleum or silicon can damage the PVC casing around the wire. Any graphite lube like "Dry Slide" is best, and most come with a syringe type applicator for pin point application.

[Ray,IN]

I would still like to know if this lubricator can be used on coated cables.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mafiaman Any lubricant that contains petroleum or silicon can damage the PVC casing around the wire. Any graphite lube like "Dry Slide" is best, and most come with a syringe type applicator for pin point application.

PVC is made using oil. PVC is used in wastewater plants to attract and Coalesce small oil droplets. It is neutral to most chemicals including oil.Oil/Water Separators

[RJay]

Ray,
The lubricator is made for covered cable. It slides over the metal cable up to the covering. The lubricator forces the lubricant between the cable and the covering. The small hole located at the 10 o'clock position is for the small tube on the lubricant can.

[Mafiaman]

exactly right ray, petroleum products attract petroleum products.
and easy way to remove oil from your hands is with gas. and easy way to remove tar is with oils, and oils soften PVC.

Do what you want with your cables.

[Ray,IN]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RJay Ray, The lubricator is made for covered cable. It slides over the metal cable up to the covering. The lubricator forces the lubricant between the cable and the covering. The small hole located at the 10 o'clock position is for the small tube on the lubricant can.

Thank you RJay! I'll stop in my local HD dealership tomorrow and buy one.

[4x4van]

Exactly the same thing that my dad purchased (don't remember where) 20 years ago for M/C cables. I recently purchased one myself at Harbor Freight; exactly the same as my dad's old one. Any lubricant with the "straw" type nozzle works with it; I use WD-40, works perfectly.

[MICHIGAN CAMPER]

I never considered myself a 'mechanical numbnutz' but I never could figure out how to make this thing work right. Squirted lube all over everything.
michigancamper