Hi Folks.

I am no expert, of course, But I would think the main reason to not
use any oil on  wood serews is to avoid swelling.  Swelling, of
course, being the death of wooden screws.  Makes 'em seize and thence
self-destruct.

As to bee's wax on metal screws in wood, it does lubricate a bit on
entry and helps to prevent rust while in place.  At least in my
experience.  I do agree that it is a sticky wax and does not lubricate
on any level other than previously mentioned.

I also had an old woodworker once tell me to use WD-40 to lubricate
wood screws (steel, brass, etc.) when inserting in wood.  It does
work, but I don't know about long-term effects.

That's the best brain dump I can offer on the subject and of course, YMMV.

Bruce Z.
Des Moines, IA


>
> But then he warns, "Under no circumstances put linseed or any other
> oil on the wooden threads."
>
> Why not?  (He doesn't explain.)  Why is it OK to lubricate with
> graphite, but not oil?
>