Originally Posted by
JPMacG
Regarding the squeak the OP mentioned earlier....
My B17 developed a squeak after a few hundred miles. At the suggestion of someone here on BF I applied a few drops of light machine oil to the tensioning screw at its front and rear contact points. Then I worked the screw back and forth 1/16 turn or so to work in the lube. Squeak gone. I have had to do this twice in about 3000 miles.
Regarding Proofhide....
I think Proofhide is really not necessary, however, Brooks will be happy to sell you a small tin of magic snake oil to help out their bottom line.
You did the right thing:
Light machine oil. For those who similarly locate a sqeak at the adjustmant bolt, don't bother with WD-40. A light oil is the way to go, like sewing machine oil. WD-40 and other "penetrants" will only last a little while.