Mickey2

Yes, I think Singer generally adviced oil even on meshing gears up until some time in the 50s. Exception was for the potted motor version of the 201, 101 and 15, and to begin with only the gears near the motor and behind the hand wheel. My 1950 201K with a belt driven motor (as well as treadle version, and hand crank) only show oil points in the manual, no mention of grease at all. There is even an oil point in the body near the base (under the stitch length lever) to reach one set of these gears. The others are reached, once from behind the round lid in the back and the other under the bobbin case from an oil point above.

In the late 50s this change, I know the 401 manual call for grease on the meshing gears. The advantage with grease is less frequent applications and there is no chance of excess oil seeping into places where it shouldn't be (motor); but oil often comes out better where it easily can be applied more frequent. I have tested, oil coats the gears well, doesn't spin off even on high speeds. When I use Finish Line Ceramic Wet lube it last a few days before I need to oil again (unless it's used a lot), and it even runs smoother than with grease. Either way, you can try both and notice the difference first hand for the 115. I would love to get any feedback on the subject :- )