PLEASE use NeoLube! It worked awesome on my side rods and its conductive so it won't cause any problems. If you apply it in layers you can go as dark or leave it mottled as I did to create a very realistic look!
Neolube isn't cheap, but IT WORKS! I tried a dipping method before the Neolube and it didn't produce good results. But when I broke down and bought a bottle of (how many more times can I say it and sound like an infomercial) Neolube from MicroMark I think, and it worked PERFECTLY.
And you have nothing to loose. If you don't like it, just paint over the finish. It will probably act as a primer anyway!
