What are you guys using for switch lubrication. Lately we have been using whatever oil or grease was laying around. I figure there has to be something better then journal oil and maybe would last all summer too.

I am tempted to say that the cheap and persistent 'best answer' for most "preservation" applications will be used oil mixed with graphite. As the lighter oils evaporate or 'weather conditions' start caking the oil, the graphite will take up the tribology (and it's in solid state in the inreasingly-viscout and eventually caked oil 'vehicle') so it should provide extended functionality even with lots of sun and rain and freezing temps.

There are of course lots of proprietary products that provide very effective tribology for a small amount of product, or which are intended more for "Class 1" style service where an 'economical' amount of product keeps the performance good, but usually needs reapplication fairly frequently. See this unintentionally-a-bit-amusing video for an example:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTMtE7BkrfE

Also thousands of other choices and helpful suggestions elsewhere 'on line' ... I'm looking forward to the actual professional experience of our preservation experts and skilled railroaders alike.

Slip Plate #1. Paintable dry graphite.

Dad used to use that stuff in the hopper wagons to keep the grain moving through the gates. Not sure what side effects that had to the food supply but all that grease in the combine went somewhere as well.

Just saw Joel Cox applying some of that on switches at WRM. The nice thing is the weather doesn't take it away. That's relevant when a switch is rarely operated.

Graphite is the best. It sticks, stays on well, and doesn't attract dirt and debris like oil does. It spreads well and even a thin layer will lubricate well.

Clean the switch really well, preferably to bright bare metal. Apply in dry weather if at all possible.

Beware of the can, graphite will get everywhere. You WILL have graphite on your gloves, your clothes, in your vehicle. Be prepared for that. Keep well away from electronics.

I don't know if they make any that comes in a spray can (we always use the paint can style) but if they do, and you only have a few to lubricate, that might be a good option.