I have a couple phones that either the dial returns immediately or not at all. They are all different manufacturers and models. Any hints for easy fixes? Is it OK to use a light oil?

I've successfully used wd40

Thanks, I hadn't thought of that. On closer inspection, it looks as if someone spilled milk on the dial. Do you know how it get the dial off on an AE Starlite phone?

I think you mean the finger wheel rather than the dial .

As I recall theres a metal catch you have to push down and then rotate the finger wheel

look between eh finger wheel and the plastic around the 0

There is a man in my antique telephone club, Steve Hilsz, who will rebuild, lubricate and adjust into tolerances any rotary dial for $5.00.

he is the acknowleged expert on rotary dials.

PM me for his contact info, if interested (and if you are referring to rotary, not TT dials.)

Skip, I was referring to the finger wheel and dial. Phone must have been used in a nursery.
And Arthur, that sounds like a good deal. I will PM you shortly.