We have the same problem. We moved and the mixer lost some oil in transit. As I'm sure you discovered, the Kitchen Aid website isn't very helpful on this point. They say that the unit will lose some oil from the shaft if tipped or unused for a while. But they don't say how much is too much ("X cups of oil" is what is says) and they imply that the only way to add more oil is to "have it serviced." I found a service manual at a website which sells replacement parts: http://www.mendingshed.com/kitaidparts.html. Take a look for yourself, but I don't see any place where oil can easily be added. The manual shows that all the gears are packed with a special food grade grease and the shaft gets oiled with some unspecified product when installed (maybe the same grease? but it says "oil the shaft"). Someone used to pulling apart small appliances having gears and electric motors would probably be comfortable with taking it apart and checking it out. But we mere mortals may need to consider finding a service location. Good luck!
Donna, July 2008
