Which lube to use

In short,  Synthetic Greases with PTFE , especially good ones are Super Lube 21014 , SL21030 and  41150 . They are all the same, just different bottle sizes. SuperLube also sell ~200kg (~440lbs) trums, 1ml (1cc) packets and everything in-between 

 If using carbon-fiber rods , then lubrication is different. Generally speaking rods themselves won't need lubrication, just cleaning. Lineral bearings need lubrication tho. Wear on carbon fiber rods happens mostly because of rusty or chipped bearing, which smashes parts out from CF rods. It's safe to use syntethic greases, but should avoid petroleum and mineral oils, since they aren't compatible with resins used to bind carbon-fibers together 

 Synthetic lubricants 

 

 Properties : Excellent temperature stability, resistance to degradation, superior performance at extreme temperatures (~200C and above). Does not get crusty or gummy over time 

 Uses : Automotive engines and high-performance applications 

 Ideal For : Situations requiring durable, high-performance lubrication under varying conditions 

 

 Synthetic greases with PTFE 

 

 Properties : Low friction (due to PTFE), stable across a wide temperature range. Does not get crusty or gummy over time 

 Uses : Precision instruments, bearings in high-performance and high-temperature applications 

 Ideal For : Applications where minimal friction and wear are critical 

 

 Silicone-based greases 

 

 Properties : Excellent thermal stability, non-reactive, good plastic and rubber compatibility. Does get crusty and gummy over time, especially with temperature fluctuations 

 Uses : Electrical insulations, plumbing, automotive components, food-grade applications 

 Ideal For : Moisture-rich environments and applications requiring material compatibility 

 

 Lithium-based Greases 

 

 Properties : Good temperature tolerance. Will get crusty and gummy overtime. Especially with high temperature fluctuations. Will damage carbon-fiber rods over-time 

 Uses : Automotive, industrial heavy-duty bearings 

 Ideal For : General-purpose, heavy-load applications, especially where moisture is present 

 

 Dry lubricants 

 

 Properties : Do not attract dust or dirt, function well under high temperatures, up to 1100°C (2012°F). Get crusty when overapplied, doesn't reduce friction nor protect as good as liquid ones 

 Uses : Locks, hinges, super-high-temperature environments 

 Ideal For : Situations where cleanliness is crucial and temperature is too high for liquid alternatives 

 

 Sewing machine oil 

 

 Properties : Fluid at low temperatures, need to be applied often (daily). Can't take temperatures above 100°C. Will get gummy over time, especially with temperature changes 

 Uses : Small bearings, household tools, precision instruments, not ideal for carbon-fiber parts - petroleum based. Shouldn't be too bad, since it's so light with refined nature, but still not recommended 

 Ideal For : General-purpose lubrication at room temperature