Best oil for the tiger timer

[tmodeldriver]

and how often? Thanks. Bob

[Steve Jelf]

I believe the Tiger is essentially a copy of the Ford timer. Here's what the 1919 Owner's Manual says:

I know one Model T expert who packs his timer full of Mobil red grease, and apparently it works. I use New Day timers, so I have no first-hand experience.

What is "light" or "medium light" engine oil? Those are old terms for 20W. But a modern multigrade (5W-20) is not the same. Some of today's T experts who drive long distances use 15W-40 and 20W-50.

[jiminbartow]

Packing a timer full of grease is unnecessary and subjects the parts to undo stress and resistance. A coating of lubricant is sufficient. Also, be careful to select a grease or lubricant that is totally inert and non-conducive and contains no conductive additives such as lithium. I came up with my own lubricant by mixing “Vaseline” petroleum jelly with “3 in One” oil, stirring them together until it has the consistency of honey. That way it is thick enough to cling to the surfaces without flowing off of the contacts and pooling in the bottom of the the timer casing, but is not so thick as to inhibit the proper function of the unit by causing resistance and coming between the contact surfaces causing intermittent contact. Jim Patrick

[Kerry]

Tiger timers were made in the USA and in Japan, I've used both, as for best lube? didn't seem to make any difference, neither lasted very long

[tmodeldriver]

Thanks for your input, gents. Jim, I like your idea about vaseline and 3 in 1 oil. That's probably the way I'll go.

[Original Smith]

Tiger Timers were the cheapest design of the Ford style timer.

[John kuehn]

Over the years people have used different oil concoctions for timer oil. From 30w oil to everything else in between.
I found using a mix of STP and engine oil makes for a really slick feeling oil. You can use Motor honey also with a mix to thin it down.
I can remember growing up that mechanics would use STP to put engines together with. Some would use Luberiplate too. Couldn’t hurt to use it a timer.