Used Capper repair/service?

Just bought an all metal wing style capper from a guy on craigslist. It is in good shape, already did a dry run with it, however it is stiff as hell. I was wondering if I cleaned it with a solvent and lubed with wd-40 if it would help. I am also wondering if there would be and negative effects to cap performance?? if there is such a thing or really if it would be safe to use still, since solvent isn't food safe.

 

I have an older all metal wing capper. when i got back into homebrewing it was quite stiff and all I did was lube the moving parts with some light oil. It now works great.

 

you only need WD-40 on the hinges. give them a spritz, move about a little to distribute inside the joints, then wipe clean with a tissue. there is no concern about food safety since no food will come in contact with the joints. no need to lube where the cap meets the capper.

 

Thanks guys. Will give it go and see if I can loosen it up a bit.

 

i just put some cooking oil on my finger and wipe the hinges then work it a bit and it loosens right up