How does one lubricate parts?

So i have my shiny new printer and after repairing the "interesting" assembly job i really need to lubricate the Z axis rods; they scream like a dying pig when the head lowers.

My question to all is how do we lubricate this part and others.... and what should we use to lubricate?

Cheers in advance

 

I used copper grease as it was all I had , seems ok so far plus as I am thinking of making an enclosure copper grease may deal with the heat better

 

I personally use T9 made by Boeing through their Boeshield group. It was designed for Aerospace. I needed it originally to remove a part that had rusted and bonded to another. It was pretty darn amazing.

They make a version for bicycles which you can push a needle through the tip so that it can be applied drop by drop. Stuff isn't cheap but a little goes a long way and lasts a long time.

Here it is on amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Boeshield-Corrosion-Protection-Waterproof-Lubrication/dp/B000GE1F9K/

Because it can be applied drop by drop you can just use a few drops and then run the Z axis motor up and down to distribute it.

(btw, I've used T9 now for years and it's still one of my favorite lubricants)

 

I used this: http://www.acehardware.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3506761&cp=2568443.2568455.2631180

Probably not ideal but I've had no issues with it so far. Make my z rods nice and quiet

 

Looks pretty much like what one uses on their garage doors to lube up the hinges and chain. Unless it has doesn't have large particles in it, I can't see being any worse than any other lucubration liquid.

 

What about machine oil? Like you use on an electric razor or sewing machine?

 

That would probably work as well. I've noticed my synthetic grease has acquired quite a bit of grime but still doesn't make noise.

 

I gave the machine oil a go, and it fixed the whining noise for now. I'll probably run to Home Depot / Lowes later and switch out for the white lithium grease. At least my ears can stop bleeding for the time being. Thanks guys!