Replacing gears and bushings in my 88's headlights. What do I use to lubricate those parts? Grease? Oil?

I wondered that too and was worried about stuff that might melt or damage the plastic gears. On mine, I used the type of plastic-compatible grease used on model trains, the brand name was Labelle. Hobby Lobby or similar stores probably has it.

Used a little white grease on the gear and where the shaft fit into the bushing. Put it all back together using the new parts and lights work great.

White grease is good on gear. Lubriplate is good (Sold in small tubes an auto parts stores.)

Use good spray oil (Not WD40 or Liquid Wrench etc penetrating oil) or a drop or two of AT/motor oil on tip of motor's shaft... Has a "BB" as a bearing where meets the adjustment screw. And on both bearing on output shaft.

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Dr. Ian Malcolm: Yeah, but your scientists were so preoccupied with whether or not they could, they didn't stop to think if they should.
(Jurassic Park)

The Ogre's Fiero Cave (It's also at the top and bottom of every forum page...)

Syl-Glyde Synthetic Brake Slider Grease. High temp so it won't melt. Synthetic so it doesn't damage petrochemical (plastic) parts.

Word of warning. When you open the case halves, do it on a paper towel. Be very aware of a single tiny ball bearing that sits in the bottom of the motor screw shaft. You don't want to lose it. It's about the size of a number 6 or 8 shotgun pellet.

Didn't see any BB's then again I only opened up the round cover where the gear and 3 plastic bushings go. Bought new gaskets and used them too

You'd have to separate the case to find it, or lose it. There's a dimple in the bottom end of the motor screw shaft where it sits. It's captured by a similar dimple in the bottom of the case half.

[This message has been edited by fierofool (edited 11-12-2012).]

quote Originally posted by TejasFiero: Didn't see any BB's then again I only opened up the round cover where the gear and 3 plastic bushings go. Bought new gaskets and used them too

You won't...
Need to remove adjuster screw or remove motor from lower section. BB is at bottom of motor shaft.
Not needed to replace gear bushings.

Use a drop of oil to lube the BB while you fix gear bushings. Don't take BB out. just let gravity work.

[This message has been edited by theogre (edited 11-12-2012).]

why not ,just basic high temp wheel bearing grease

quote Originally posted by E.Furgal: why not ,just basic high temp wheel bearing grease

It's a petrochemical product and could eventually harm plastic.