I always grease the regular nut slots on my axes with GHS GraphitALL paste whether i use a locking system on the neck or not. GraphitALL makes it all happen... strings slide effortlessly thru the properly fluted nut without hesitation. Bends will always come back into tune. I also advise lubbing the nut slots with a dab of lubricant even when you use a stringlock, just don't lubricate any Locknut slots. Of course, if you don't want to lube anything, you can invest in a LSR roller nut or better yet a self-lubricating Teflon nut which is much less expensive or invasive to install and which i highly recommend. A couple of my axes have locking tuners and a Teflon nut. I love them because it keeps the original looks to the guitars. Whichever way you decide, the idea is the same...

I've been doing the Kahler gig since 1984 and I know from experience that a tremolo system is a very simple thing really. Two forces offsetting each other equally until you upset the balance with a Wammi bar. To work perfectly/properly, string ends must be locked tight and all strings must slide absolutely freely over all obstacles during dives and pull ups (obstacles like bridge rollers and nut slots).

Lubrications to avoid at all costs: Vaseline, 3 in 1 oil, WD-40 or any petroleum based product as the finish on your guitar or bass will be ruined. Do not use vegetable oils or greases (lard ect.) as neck finish discoloration may occur. Graphite powder would be ideal but you cant keep it in place and its messy. That's why for a regular non self-lubricating nut, GraphitALL wins in my book. Creamy graphite is the answer! Read More---> .