Cube lube

[Theromy]

Do you know where I can get any good lube that is in the UK?

On sites I've been to it costs alot, from the official Rubik's site it costs $20 for postage and it takes 30-60 business days. Could you suggest anywhere? The lube is for my new white DIY(a) by the way.

 

[DanHarris]

Do you know where I can get any good lube that is in the UK?

Try to find Tableau "Dry-Lube" Silicon Spray. It comes in a red or blue can, and is perfect for lubing your 3x3x3. You can search for a stockist in your area on this page - http://www.tableauproducts.com/home/stockists.php

 

[Theromy]

Thanks, I'll have to find a post code near to us that it'll recognise.

I've been on the internet, there's quite a lot of sprays, does it matter what type it is? As long as it's 100% silicon.

 

[joey]

Dan: Is that the stuff you always use? If so that is good, because that is what I use!
It is great!

 

[h3ndrik]

i'd suggest cublelube.com. he sells the exact same lube as seen on the official rubik site nearly for free.

 

[DanHarris]

Dan: Is that the stuff you always use? If so that is good, because that is what I use!
It is great!

Yes, that is the one I use, it is very nice. Sean Connolly recommended it to me.

i'd suggest cublelube.com. he sells the exact same lube as seen on the official rubik site nearly for free.

I wouldn't put that stuff anywhere near my 3x3x3. But it IS great for the big cubes

 

[h3ndrik]

why wouldn't you? i use that kind of lube with all my cubes and i am completely satisfied.

 

[ExoCorsair]

i'd suggest cublelube.com. he sells the exact same lube as seen on the official rubik site nearly for free.

I wouldn't put that stuff anywhere near my 3x3x3. But it IS great for the big cubes

Could you elaborate on this? I use silicone for my big cubes regardless now.

 

[DanHarris]

Personally i believe the 3x3x3 needs to have different turning qualities to the bigger cubes. The Rubik's lube leaves cubes feeling quite waxy and "furry" inside, and while this is ideal for the bigger cubes which need to turn a bit slower and a lot more smoothly, it's not a great property for a 3x3x3 to have. The mechanisms of the larger cubes limit your turning speed somewhat (ie you could move the cubes faster if only they would allow it), so lube which decreases the speed but makes the cube a lot more smooth and less prone to locking up is great. 3x3x3's need to be very dry, very fast, and very snappy, which is why I use Dry Lube on it, and I have to say I think it is the best lube for 3x3x3 cubes.

 

[Todd]

I didnt even know there was a product called cube lube :-\

Just get a plastic safe silicon spray.

I got mine for like $14.95AUD ... works well - smells out the room - but works well.

 

[h3ndrik]

hey dan, seems like i have to buy one of your prelubed cubes to see what you mean i had silicone spray before and my cube got sticky. turning a layer was really easy once you started the motion, but the initial resistance was very high. then i bought lube identical to the rubik's brand and its not sticky, it turns very well and is not sticky at all. looks like i have experienced the exact opposite of the effect you described.

 

[DanHarris]

Hey,

unfortunately I only made 100 and sold them all! There is a variation in the qualities of silicon spray, I used to use a Dutch version in a blue can called "Silcon Spray", and it was OK, but this Tableau Dry Lube really is "the sh*t".

The main problem I have with the rubik's lube is that its not easy to apply (you'd think being full of lubricant the syringes would move easily ), so I always end up squirting a big blob rather than being able to control it. Secondly, it doesn't seem to spread very evenly, but come together in little droplets that take for ever to dry.

But having said that, it is perfect for the bigger Rubik's brand cubes! I also have yet to try it on my Megaminx, I think it would be great for that too

 

[DarkArcher]

Hmm, I use a silicone spray. Seems like it's not 100% silicone at all and in fact does contain petroleum distillates. It works reasonably well though. However, I think in order to achieve the best lubrication effects, the lubricant should be applied lightly. What I mean is, not spraying lubricant on the cubies directly but using something like a cotton bud to apply the lubricant on the inner surfaces of the cubies.

After application, let it dry for 10 minutes +. Even after drying, some droplets do remain and must be wiped off with a cottom bud or tissue paper. Only when the inner surfaces are totally dry should you reassemble the cube. If you don't wipe off the excess lubricant, the cube will be slightly sticky.

I worked this out based on experience lol. I remember a time when I just finished lubing my cube and it was sticky for some reason. In fustration, I dismantled the cube and wiped off all the lubricant thinking that I'd rather have an unlubed cube than a sticky but smooth cube. Well, who knows, it turned out really well after I wiped off the excess lube inside. I think as long as the silicone atoms get into the microscopic gaps on the inner surfaces, there's no need for excess atoms to roll about.

 

[Theromy]

I think I'll try Dry Lube, also my Uncle is a mechanic so I might ask him about some silicon sprays, thanks for the help guys.

 

[Squircifer]

I have to say that the stuff you used for those cubes you sold Dan were spot on! I bought one of those cubes from you off eBay. Have to say it rocks. My one friend was jealous of the cube.. but she could still solve hers faster.. lol...