Lubricating Speed King Pedal

I just bought this Ludwig Speed King pedal at a local music store for $25. Anyone know the best lubrication to use? Also, the bottom of the footboard can swivel around, does anyone know what the purpose for this piece is? I haven't owned one of these since I was a teenager, and I've forgotten what it's for, thanks.

[CASP3Rdrummer]

didn't bonham use the exact same model??

Originally Posted by CASP3Rdrummer

didn't bonham use the exact same model??

Yes he did, it was the only pedal he used. It's funny, I haven't used one of these pedals in years, then I borrowed one from a friend and tried it out at rehearsal. I liked it so much I sold my DW 5000 pedal on ebay for $100, then I bought this one at a local music store and another off ebay with plenty of cash left over. I took it apart and used some WD40 on it, but I'm wondering if there is something better to use.

[harryconway]

The 2 position heel plate gives you an "option". You like your pedal footboard 1 piece, longboard style....or you like your pedal 2 piece, with a separate heel plate/footboard. Play both ways, see which one feels best.

[Deathmetalconga]

You got a good pedal for a good price.

You should probably take the pedal apart for cleaning. If you have minimal experience with tools and simple machines it should be be that hard. Fill a small cup with paint thinner and put all the bearings, etc. in there for cleaning and wipe the pedal down with paint thinner as well. Re-assemble everything and oil with sewing machine oil or even clean motor oil. Good as new!

[Caprice]

Oil will leak down the tensioning screws and will not lubricate as well as grease would do in this case. Speed King pedals came brand new with grease. I would use automotive wheel bearing grease.

[xdrmusclex]

WD40 is NOT NOT NOT a lubricant. Yes, they claim it "lubricates" but you would be much better off with something like a light lithium grease, or even gibraltolube (a drum hardware lubricant made by gibralter, very clever name). Frankly, I would go to the hardware store and ask for a light lithium grease, it will stay put (not leak everywhere) and lubricate for the next 50 years, hoping the pedal will last that long.

Totally sweet pedal though!

(you may also want to replace the bearings)

[Vintagedrummer]

For a mere $99.99 you can buy my "Secrets of Lubricating the Speed King" dvd. It's slicker than black ice on a bridge....

Peace

P.S. I use silicone lube on my SK. WD40 isn't a good choice.