Lub for ways and prevent rust

[Wongster]

I'll do some searches using the term "way oil" locally and looknoit for the word "tackifier" in the descriptions.

For cutting aluminium, I use mainly WD40 and sometime sewing machine oil. Also use sewing machine oil currently to protect the machines from rust. Didn't get as much shop time as I like....

[Mayhem]

Did you contact United Oil?

[Wongster]

I wrote them an email asking if their products are sold at retail shops or if they are willing to sell small quantity to a hobbyist.

From my past experience dealing with bigger companies, they aren't not keen to deal with individuals. I have had hard time even looking for raw materials to work with till I found a couple of small shops willing to sell me some off their off cuts. One such shop has retired and I'm down by 1 supplier. Often times I was verbally abused by the old man running the shop but I bear with it to get what I want.... I'm most polite when I'm in these shops....

[Dr Stan]

(10-03-2016, 10:23 AM)Wongster Wrote: Often times I was verbally abused by the old man running the shop but I bear with it to get what I want....  I'm most polite when I'm in these shops....

You could ask the shop where you buy drop offs if they are willing to sell oil in small amounts say a liter or 2.

As to the old man there is no excuse for this type of behavior.  Unprofessional is just one of the descriptors that come to mind.  I recommend a Google search for small shops in Singapore and southern Malaysia to find additional suppliers.

[Wongster]

Thanks for the advice. Many hobbyists like myself encounter difficulties getting the stuff we want and need. For those working in industry related to their hobby, they are the more fortunate ones and some are willing to help. Those of my friends in woodworking as hobby have limited types of wood to play with and they often have to pay a higher price to get what they want.

We share info and resources amongst ourselves, pointing where and who sells what and at what prices. Many of us rely on Tao Bao, which we get tools and stuff at good price from China, and ship them in thru ezBuy at very small shipping fee. There are limitations of what can be shipped in ofcoz. Of things that can be shipped, you'll be spoilt for the variety one can choose from.

One good news is, there is an increase in numbers of DIY'ers in the country. Communities are growing and hopefully availability of resources follow.

[Mayhem]

United make the way oil themselves, so they may well sell you a small volume. If they were a distributor buying it in 200L drums or 20L tubs, then I wouldn't expect them to be able to sell a small quantity to you. However, United Oil make several thousand litres of Slideway 68 at a time, so it shouldn't be a problem to buy a small quantity. They may even write it off as a sample or even spillage.

[Wongster]

I'm hoping for that (the write off as spillage or sample)... hahaha. So far no reply. Give them a few more days.

[Roadracer_Al]

Or you could just buy a 20L tube and be set for life. I hear they make nice end tables. :)

[Wongster]

If I've the space, I dont mind... I'm staying in a small apartment with 3 bedrooms. Converted one of the bedrooms to be my workshop.

[Mayhem]

Convert another bedroom into storage or stick it in the pantry with the cooking oils