Not "just to keep it working". To keep it running the way it should. I have been using Pekos for a while now. This is how I roll. I think what you're missing is that some people wanted less maintenance, so they asked for some advice on how. Hench the plethora of posts.
Running as I do with dual 5/64id 29g 6 wrap 1.35r coils (tensioned to adhesion) for a total of 0.7r, I can say no. There is no blackening. But brass tarnishes. There is a BIG difference in a well maintained mod (of any type) as opposed to a poorly maintained one.
Fortune favors the Bottom Feeders.
I get that, and I guess what I was saying, is maintenance shouldn't be a major task,
first, make sure you use an oxidation ......ant (De-Oxit Gold) after cleanings
secondly, make sure you have no play on the negative contact, to reduce arching,
It should take minutes a week, to clean exposed areas