Originally Posted by
Ghrumpy
This is confusing and possibly contradictory: What are you supposed to infer if the original crank set's installation instructions specify a clean dry taper?
Personally, I'd absolutely give precedence to the crank manufacturer's instructions, since the spindle is much less affected either way than the crankarms, if indeed at all.
It says to consult the crank manufacturer's instructions - not necessarily to follow them blindly. Personally, I give preference to those who can give a coherent physical explanation of their viewpoint. That has led me to apply, or leave in place, a bit of lubricant at the spindle/crank interface.