Before you specify
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this work in machines with the EvenFlow automatic oiler?
Yes. It is the same Dahle shredder oil, and the 12 oz bottle is a convenient size for refilling the EvenFlow Lubricator reservoir on models such as the 51422, 51522 and 51572. The automatic oiler meters the oil out continuously; your job is simply to keep the reservoir topped up. Check the level when you change the waste bag so it never runs empty unnoticed.
Can I use it on a Dahle oil-free shredder?
No, and you should not. Dahle's Oil-Free series, the oil-free CleanTEC models, ShredMATIC and PaperSAFE machines are engineered to run without lubrication. Adding oil to them does not improve performance and creates a residue that collects paper dust. If your model name or documentation says oil-free, leave it alone.
Should I buy the 12 oz box or the 1 gallon box?
Choose the 12 oz box (20721) for one or two machines, or where the oil is applied by hand and a smaller bottle is easier to control. Choose the 1 gallon box (20722) if you maintain a fleet or refill reservoirs regularly, because the cost per ounce is lower. Both contain the same oil; the only difference is packaging.
How often does a shredder need oiling?
Dahle does not publish a fixed interval, and any figure would depend on how hard the machine works. The practical approach on a manually oiled cabinet is to oil at every bag change, and always after clearing a jam. Machines that shred heavy card, labels or continuous stationery need it more often than one handling occasional office paper.
Can I use a generic shredder oil or vegetable oil instead?
Generic shredder oils exist and many are serviceable, but check they are described as low-residue; a cheap oil that leaves a tacky film will trap dust and make the problem worse. Never use vegetable oil, motor oil or aerosol penetrating sprays. Aerosols in particular can be flammable and are not designed for an enclosed cutting head.