stanron, did you get that I'm talking about knobs not gears themselves? I'm not sure as you talk of dismantling? Re the gears, a lot of people are recommending triflo lubricant as being non-greasy, doesnt attack dirt; local bike shop where I am has we-40 which I suppose is similar. but I dont know if that would help preserve the plastic knobs. Maybe, as it would coat them, doesnt evaporate away as oils do.