I would agree with what Ron Fraiser and Tom Hall said. It seems to make
sense. Ron, basically what you said concurs with what the guy at the
appliance store told me regarding the bearings (I think the term "oilite" is
used) and using oil instead of grease. I have used synthetic grease on my
wheel bearings. I did notice that after sitting for some time the grease
(Valvoline semi synthetic in my case) did seem to release an oil like
substance. So, maybe those properties are enough for a rack. As I said
before I do see greater opportunity for lubrication with oil as cornering
would distribute it. One other thing comes to mind. If debris got in the
rack it would be more incline to fall out of the way with oil than grease.
I'm not saying grease won't work (heck, it is used on the grears in
electric drills, CV joints etc.). Maybe "caking" with age is an issue.
Perhaps Rootes didn't want the liability of the rack locking on someone. I
would choose grease over a dry rack anytime (though I still opt to use oil).
Perhaps only another 40 years will reveal what the test of time has to say.
Tom Witt
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