Addressing squeaking noise in SteadiCam Pilot arm vertical movement

Gear

ZephyrCan I fly my Alexa or RED on a Zephyr?389

Master SeriesIs a used Master Series rig worth buying as a first big rig?191

BFDHow do I power my BFD receiver from my camera or sled?186

VoltCan I retrofit a Volt onto my existing sled or gimbal?168

ArtemisHow do I power my camera and accessories from an Artemis sled?166

MDRWhere can I mount my Preston MDR on my rig?143

ModulusIs there a Modulus option for HD wireless video?141

G-70Will my G-70 fit my vest, gimbal or sled?126

FI+ZCan I control iris and zoom wirelessly, not just focus?60

HU3Where can I get my HU3 repaired, refurbished or repainted?60

CineLiveHow do I pack and case my CineLive rig for transport?54

G-70XHow does the G-70X compare to Pro Titan, Xarm and other arms?46

Trinity 2Is Trinity 2 SUP 3.0 firmware safe to install or buggy?46

Ultra VestWhich vest should I choose for my body size, comfort and operator type?39

2008Steadi-Newbies forum

18 years old. Gear and prices may have changed since.

White lithium grease is recommended for lubricating the release pin and vertical pins on a SteadiCam Pilot arm to eliminate squeaking noises.
WD-40 should not be used on delicate parts of a SteadiCam.
Squeaking in a Pilot arm can originate from the vertical pins closer to the vest or from the area where brass bushings contact the painted aluminum arm shell.
Ensuring the velcro securing the release pin is left slightly loose may help reduce squeaking.
White lithium grease remains effective over extended periods and resists moisture well.

The squeaking appeared after the user increased camera payload to approximately 10 pounds, suggesting the issue may be load-dependent.
The exact source of squeaking was not definitively identified by the original poster before receiving advice.
The recommended white lithium grease product link references a specific Amazon item that may no longer be available or may have been replaced.