Generator and Starter Motor Oil Question

[Guest Dunc126]

Another quick question: my 1930 Studebaker Commander FD and 2 oiling ports on the generator and one on the starter motor. What is the best type of oil to use on these components (motor oil, 3-in-1, etc.)?

[D Yaros]

You want a light oil, like 3-in-1 (sewing machine oil?) and use sparingly.

[Seldenguy]

In 1930's the majority of motorists used #10 motor oil for all their needs outside of the engine. I don't see why it wouldn't work today also, for my .02 cents worth. ---Bob

[ply33]

Another quick question: my 1930 Studebaker Commander FD and 2 oiling ports on the generator and one on the starter motor. What is the best type of oil to use on these components (motor oil, 3-in-1, etc.)?

Does the Owner's/Operator's Manual for the car say? On my '33 Plymouth the manual call for light weight motor oil which seems like a good recommendation still. But your manual may call for something different.

[Guest Dunc126]

Unfortunately, I don’t have an owner’s manual for this car. The closest I was able to find was a chassis parts catalog, which doesn’t cover recommended lubricants. </SPAN>

[Rusty_OToole]

Originally they called for a few drops of motor oil at each oil change interval. I would use synthetic motor oil to reduce wear. Do not over oil, if too much oil gets into the starter or generator, it can gum them up. 3 drops every 1000 miles is fine