Editing Lubrication (section)

===Alps===
It has been found that using wet lubes/greases on [[Alps SKCL/SKCM series|Alps SKCL/SKCM]] is somewhat effective at reducing scratchiness. Before the invention of the waxboil mod, there have been numerous lubricants and methods that have been experimented with to improve the smoothness of the switch. It has been found that polishing the upper housing and slider of the switch also improves smoothness.<ref name="Alps Polishing" /> The original Alps lubricant is known (Threebond 32581P);<ref name="OG Alps Lube"/> however it has long since been discontinued.

====Dry Lube====
Using a dry lube such as [[RO-59]] or PTFE powder improves the smoothness of the switch by coating the slider and/or upper housing in teflon particles. PTFE powder is inferior to RO-59 as it does not stick/cure to the surface like RO-59 does, causing it to eventually be scraped off with a reduction in smoothness. Typically, the dry lube is applied to the slider and housing with or without a solvent, and allowed to cure if it has a solvent. Attempting to use the switch without allowing the lubricant to cure may result in the lubricant being scraped off.

====Wet Lube====
Wet lubes such as the ones used in Cherry MX switches can be used on Alps switches. Other lubricants such as Threebond 1855 and Nyogel 760g are used as well.

The grease is applied to the rails in the upper housing and the areas of the slider that contact the rails. The [[Contact module | switchplate]] side of the slider and the switchplate itself are also lubed.

====Waxboil Mod====
The waxboil/wax mod is known to be one the most effective way of lubricating/restoring an Alps switch's smoothness. Although not exactly the same as the original Alps lubricant, it is reported to give a similar push-feel and greatly reduces or eliminates binding. It is generally not recommended to boil bamboo housings as they are more prone to deforming due to a higher ABS content than pine housings.

First, the switches need to be disassembled. The top housings and sliders are put in boiling water to clean them of any dirt or dust that may be present. Boiling the sliders will clean off any original lubricant present, so it is only recommended to boil the switches if the original lubricant is causing issues or has worn off.

First, pour boiling water into a container, then add the wax from a tealight candle, preferably made of Sasol 5203. Then the sliders are added, and shaking/stirring vigorously creates a temporary suspension of wax in the water, which will help coat the sliders in a layer of wax. Take the sliders out by pouring the mixture into a mesh strainer, then allow them to dry and cool down while keeping the sliders separated. The top housings are usually not waxed.

Wiping off the side of the slider will help preserve the tactility of tactile switches and the clickiness of clicky switches.