[R-390] Lubricating RF slugs [WAS: Need R-390A Iron Core Slug]

[2002tii]

Todd wrote:

>Spread a little bit of oil around the  inside of the paper
>slug tube in the RF transformer to help prevent the  slug
>sticking in the future before replacing the slug in the  rack
>assembly.

I would be very wary about using any oil or grease inside the slug 
tubes.  Over time, they can be absorbed into the paper, which can 
either make it swell (and therefore bind the core) or gum up and 
stick the core to the tube.  I've seen quite a few 390 transformers 
ruined this way, though I rarely knew exactly what had been applied 
to cause the damage.

I'd stick with very light applications of graphite or talc if you 
insist on lubricating the slugs.

To clean lubricant out of the slug tubes, use cotton wads or swabs 
barely moistened with a very fast-drying no-residue solvent like 
acetone.  Be careful not to do physical damage.

Best regards,

Don