[anijet]

On the farm we always tried to store equipment with any hydraulic cylinders retracted to protect the ram from rust. I agree though, we never lubed or cleaned them when in use. On aircraft, when they are parked for extended periods of time and the ram is very dry, they will sometimes roll the end seal because of lack of lube on initial retraction. On the MS, if we have been parked for some time I will wipe down the rams with a lightly lubed rag just before I close up the slides or retract the stabilizers. Never have lubed the racks or pinions. Maybe I'll look at that. Sure don't want to attract dirt.