Modifying mechanical keyboard switches through lubing, filming, and spring swapping is a meticulous and time-intensive process. However, as a collection grows, it is common for the specific details of these modifications to be lost over time. When revisiting a batch of switches months after the work was completed, it can be difficult to recall the exact lubricant used, which specific internal parts were treated, or if a spring swap was even performed. Without a reliable record, maintenance and future build planning rely on guesswork rather than data.
What this article covers
This article outlines the essential data fields required to maintain an accurate lubricant log. It also explains why linking this information directly to a switch entry is necessary for long-term collection management.
Essential Record Fields for a Lube Log
To maintain a high-quality ledger of switch modifications, each log entry should be tied to a specific switch and include the following fields:
- Lube Type: The specific lubricant applied to the components, such as Krytox 205g0 or Tribosys 3203.
- Lubed Parts: A record of exactly where the lubricant was applied. Standard points of application include the stem, spring, housing top, and housing bottom.
- Film Brand: If films were installed, recording the specific brand ensures consistency across the batch.
- Spring Type and Spec: Documentation of whether the switches use the stock springs or have been swapped. This should include the spring’s weight and its characteristics, such as whether it is a linear or progressive descriptor.
- Date Lubed: The specific date the modification was performed, which is vital for tracking the age of the lubricant.
- Rating: A quantitative 1-5 rating to evaluate the success of the modification in terms of feel and sound.
- Free-text Notes: A dedicated space for recording observations regarding the modification process or specific typing characteristics.
The Importance of Relational Data
Tracking modification details in a general-purpose notes app or a separate spreadsheet often creates a data silo. When mod records are disconnected from the primary switch inventory, the effort required to cross-reference information increases.
Linking this data directly to the specific switch entry is critical for the lifecycle of the hardware. For future builds, knowing the exact “recipe” used allows for a consistent typing experience across the entire board. Furthermore, if a switch requires a touch-up or a replacement later, a linked record provides the precise specifications needed to match the existing batch without trial and error.
Managing Modifications with ThockLog
The fragmented nature of traditional recording methods is the reason ThockLog was developed. Rather than relying on memory or scattered notes, the app provides a structured Lube Logs feature within every Switch Inventory entry.
This system was designed to handle the specific fields mentioned above, allowing you to log everything from the lubricant type and treated parts (stem, spring, housing top, and housing bottom) to spring weights and film brands. By consolidating these details into a single mobile-native interface, the history of every mod remains accessible right at the workbench. Each lube record lives inside the same switch inventory entry it belongs to.
For a broader look at why keeping this data in one place beats juggling spreadsheets, see One App or Five Spreadsheets? Why Mechanical Keyboard Collectors Need a Single System.
If you are looking for a system to replace your manual spreadsheets and provide a permanent home for your modification records, you can download the app here: ThockLog on the App Store
Summary
Relying on memory for switch modifications is a primary cause of inconsistency in a growing collection. By utilizing a structured log that records lube types, specific parts, and spring data, and by linking that information directly to the switch inventory, collectors can maintain a reliable history of their work for years to come.
This article organizes information from a recording and organizing perspective. If you notice an error or outdated information, please contact us. Last verified: July 2026
