Abstract: A method of fusing a heat-softenable toner image to a substrate in which a release oil is applied to the surface of a fusing member, the fusing member is incubated at an elevated temperature for a time sufficient to bond a protective layer of the release oil to the surface thereof, and the toner image is pressure contacted with the fusing member at a temperature effective to fuse the toner image to the substrate, is characterized in that the surface of the fusing member is comprised of a fluoroelastomer and the release oil is an Si--H functionalized organopolysiloxane. The method provides excellent toner release characteristics and is advantageous in that it utilizes release oils that are free from offensive odor and toxicity.