TTO action on Gillette DE

[CliffHanger]

I have recently acquired a B2-coded Red Tip that I am cleaning up for my use.
The TTO action feels a little bit 'dry', especially compared to my 40's-style SS.

Can these be disassembled, greased and reassembled?

If not, does anyone have a good method of adding a couple drops of oil into the barrel? From the top I'm guessing?

Thanks in advance,
Cliff

[Chester]

They can be disassembled, but you'll need to make a tool to get the bottom knob back on. My suggestion is to give it a good soak overnight in soapy water (or ten minutes in an ultrasonic cleaner), work the mechanism while rinsing to break up and get rid of the gunk, and put a few drops of mineral oil down the shaft, from the top.
-- Chet

[Pioneer]

Had the same problem with an Aristocrat. Just soak soak soak, as Chester says. Soak it for a while in some mild soap, twist it once in a while in the bucket, then oil, then repeat. Should be able to get 'er nice and loose that way. The tool you need to take these apart is a notched screwdriver - if you have the capabilities to make one, more power to you. Soaking it should get the job done, though. g'luck.

[gearchow]

+1 on the mineral oil suggestions. Just a small drop will do. I hold the razor under hot water prior to oiling. The oil moves into the razor easier if the razor has been warmed up.

-jim

[BBrad]

Gillette TTO razors have quite a bit of "clearance" built into them, and do not require any lubrication to prevent wear or improve operation.

Mineral oil dissolves and softens some of the soap and mineral "gunk" that can cause the screw or shaft to bind. Not actually lubricating metal-to-metal components, but rather helping to get rid of the crud that is the underlying cause of the problem.

A long soak in very hot water (just shy of boiling) does wonders if crud is your issue. An ultrasonic cleaner is helpful in getting the crud loosened as well.

Double check to make sure your head is square and the safety bars are straight. Any tweaks to the head geometry (as a result of being dropped) can cause the doors to bind when opening.

For my face and beard, it is hard to find a better DE shave than a Red Tip. Good luck with your restoration!