In the 070719 MMD, Doug Hershberger asked for thoughts about
proper lubrication of band organ parts, particularly crankshaft and
pumpsticks.  But I didn't see any responses to his question.   I don't
know the answer, but I have these thoughts.

Since the crankshaft is metal and the pumpsticks are wood, wouldn't
any abrasive sand or other grit that gets picked up by a grease embed
itself in the softer wood of the pumpsticks and gradually grind away
at the metal of the crankshaft?  It seems to me that something like dry
graphite would be a better lubricating option than any grease.

I know that dry graphite is used to lubricate the slider mechanism on
things like snare drum actions.  If you open the pores of the wood to
which you are applying the powdered dry graphite by wetting the wood
with alcohol, then vigorously and firmly rub the graphite into the
wood, you can impregnate it with the graphite, and its lubricating
effect will last for a very long time.

Matthew Caulfield
Irondequoit, New York