Re: Coupler grease????
There was a recent thread in "trailers" discussing grease for bearings, and if "better" grease should be used for trailer bearings. It is important to understand that grease is formulated for specific conditions, short-term every grease lubricates, long-term it may not provide the protection intended.<br /><br />Grease is comprised of a base oil with a thickening agent that prevents evaporation of the oil which increases its lubricating life span (how long it is effective at providing lubrication). Additives also improve corrosion protection, resistance, and reduce oxidation. Grease is also formulated for specific temperature ranges...for instance, bearing grease will withstand the high temps that tires and bearing friction generate, rather than liquify. Although other greases may have better lubricating qualities under room temp conditions, they probably don't under high temp.<br /><br />Grease is used for low torque applications, high speed or where circulation of the lubricant to provide cooling is NOT required. Greases have different types of base oils (such as petroleum, synthetic, silicone, etc.), various thickeners such as lithium, sodium or urea bases, working temperature ranges and dropping points (temperature at which it liquifies). They also have channeling or non-channeling properties. Channeling refers to whether the grease stays in place when displaced by a moving part like a bearing, non-channeling grease migrates back into a cavity or raceway.<br /><br />So....there's more to grease than most people want to know. Why risk the expense and inconvenience of early failure on an expensive piece of equipment for $8 ?
