Bicycle Mechanics - spoke prep

This is one area that I'm getting really conflicting stories
about. One LBS says he never builds without it,
one says never use it, use ice wax to lube the spoke
nipple and then after about 100 miles use locktite (blue?).
Most shops don't even sell Spoke Prep
(although one did offer me enough to build wheels).
So whats the story ? Hype? or not?

Marty

I used to use Wheel Smith spoke prep with every build, it helps keep the nipples from loosening. It is expensive for one build, close to $40 for two little bottles.
Now I use Spoke Freeze from DT, it appears to be dilute loctite. Works well, you put it on after the build and let it wick into the threads.
With the spoke prep you have to apply just a bit to each threaded end, roll it into the threads and let it dry. If you apply it and can't assemble the wheel for a while the stuff gets pretty hard and makes the build more difficult.
I lube the nipples with triflow mostly. I use a little grease on the nipple holes if the rim does not have eyelets.
I have built wheels with no threadlock with no problem, if the tension is high enough(correct) they will not unscrew, but I prefer the insurance of threadlock

At the shop i work at, Phil Wood Tenaciious Oil is the stuff. Spoke Prep is way too expensive and the Phil Wood stuff works great

I use Spoke Prep.

I used to use linseed oil, but you have to let the wheels age for a while before you ride on them or they'll loosen up.

I haven't had any issues with using Spoke Prep except for the cost. If you are only building wheels for personal use, it's way expensive. If you build a lot of wheels, the per wheel cost is manageable because a bottle will prep a lot of spokes.