WD-40

WD-40 is a penetrating oil that is manufactured by the WD-40 Company in the United States.

Cleaning

WD-40 is often found in old typewriters, particularly American makes, due to its ubiquitous nature in the United States. It may cause typebars to gum up and become immovable.

WD-40 is often frowned upon in typewriter repair because of its paraffin-wax content. When left on a typewriter for a prolonged period of time, particularly in tight spaces like the segment, WD-40 will attract dirt and grime before becoming a sticky solid.

Use

WD-40 can be used to dissolve and remove old WD-40 before flushing, or clean crinkle paint and metal parts when applied with a rag.