Dave: All Drake PTO's should be silky smooth. Check out Neil's write up on restoration at Ron's great web site: http://www.wb4hfn.com/DRAKE/DrakeArticles/PTO/Drake_PTO.htm You're right, no lube on nylon gears. One word of caution: there are a bunch of ball bearings in the PTO. Don't lose them! 73 Lee WB6SSW