Properly using a grease gun can be quite trickier than you might think. Doing it incorrectly will lead to grease on everything and a (formally) good grease cartridge into the trash. To avoid waste and frustration, check out the step-by-step instructions on how to use a grease gun and multipurpose grease cartridges.
Use the correct grease: First and foremost, make sure the grease you’re using meets the specifications given in the service manual and owner’s manual. Most of the applications specify either NLGI #1 or NLGI #2 grease. NLGI #1 is typically meant for cold-weather applications since it’s a little easier and softer to pump. Your application may also specify using grease that meets the GC-LB specifications, which is common for automotive bearings.
Avoid mixing greases: Different greases use different base thickeners and oils, which can be incompatible. Mixing incompatible greases can cause the grease to fail and break down to provide adequate lubrication. When changing greases, make sure to clean the equipment of the old grease when possible or flush it with a liberal amount of fresh grease while the mechanism is in operation. Now, closely monitor the system for any inconsistencies.
Keep it clean: Maintaining a clean working environment is important when greasing types of equipment. Wipe multipurpose grease cartridges fittings clean prior to injecting grease to ensure there is no contaminant ingestion. Wipe the fitting after greasing as well. Finally, wipe excess grease off the gun nozzle and cover it properly with a cap to keep it clean during storage.
Avoid over-greasing: A grease gun and multipurpose grease cartridges have the potential of producing pressures as high as 15,000 psi. This greatly crosses the pressure most bearing seals are designed to withstand. Over-greasing can easily rupture the seals, which leads to a rise in friction, heat, and, eventually, maintenance and downtime. Proper greasing requires little or completely no weight behind the grease gun handle. As soon as you feel the backpressure, stop greasing. It’s tempting to think adding a few extra shots of grease is advantageous, but it does not do any good, rather it does more harm. Backpressure means the cavity is close to, or completely full, so stops greasing. Some grease is harder to pump than others. That is actually by design. And some applications, like bushings and pins, require more force to push the grease into place. In general, though, if you have to stand on the handle or get a cheater bar, something is not right.
Use high-quality grease: Finally, make sure you use high-quality grease with the multipurpose grease cartridges. You should formulate your greases with durable synthetic base oils and high-quality thickeners so they provide excellent wear protection and adhesion. They withstand heavy loads; remain in place despite rigorous fight corrosion and are used for long component life.
It’ll seem easy to use the grease gun and multipurpose grease cartridge. Don’t forget this useful information next time you need to use your grease gun.
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