R14 simply states:
No modifications to electronic or pneumatic components are allowed.
R14c states:
Teams may make the following modifications to the V5 / EXP Smart Motor user-serviceable features. This list is all-inclusive; no other modifications are permitted. Where applicable, the components listed below (in the specific applications listed below) are permissible exceptions to R20. >i. Replacing the gear cartridge with other official cartridges. >ii. Removing or replacing the screws from the V5 Smart Motor Cap (276-6780). >iii. Removing or replacing the threaded mounting inserts (276-6781). >iv. Aesthetic/non-functional labeling (e.g., markers, stickers, paint, etc.).
It is very clear that no modifications may be done to motors or motor cartridges except for the 4 things listed in the rulebook. However, I would like some clarification on whether or not adding any lube that is allowed by R7b, would be allowed for motor cartridges.
Motor cartridges come with some factory lube already applied, but I have had motor cartridges that due to how long they have been sitting around, the lube would dry up and impact the over all performance of the motors. Can we take apart the motor cartridge, clean the dried lube, re-lube the gears, then putting the cartridge back exactly how it came? Or are we expected to buy new cartridges when the old ones preform worse? Wouldn't this count as basic maintanance instead of modification? Thank you.