✅ Thrifted KitchenAid stand mixer leaks black oil from the head. Fixable?
@thrift_queen_mo
Oct 14, 2026 · 1.6k views
Picked up a tilt-head KitchenAid for $20. Works great but there is a dark oily drip from the planetary when it sits. Is this the end or is it a maintenance thing?
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2 replies
✅ Accepted solution
Maintenance thing, and a classic. The grease inside separates with age and the oil fraction leaks out. Pull the band, the planetary, and the top cover (five screws), scoop out the old grease, repack with food-grade grease (Benalene 930 or similar, about $15 for way more than you need). Tons of videos for this. Counts as one of the best $20 you will spend.
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Did this on my mom's 1980s one. The hardest part is getting the pin out of the planetary. Use a punch, not a screwdriver.
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