Should Needle Bearings Be Greased Before Installation? [TA]

[Powerpoint]

Hi.
I wonder if I should grease needle bearings with grease during all installations?
The manual does not mention anything regarding the replacement of this bearing in the TA,
but on YouTube, it seems like everyone greases their new needle bearings with grease before installation in general.

Is there a general mindset regarding which bearings should be lubricated and which should not before use?
Most bearings today have sealed raceways, and I understand that one should not attempt to lubricate them with grease. But where is the line drawn otherwise?

Thanks.

[Matt Kirsch]

Keep in mind that the manual was written for an experienced mechanic and does not include every little step. It is more likely the manual would tell you where NOT to lubricate before assembly, because that would be the unusual circumstance.

Just as a matter of standard practice, I would at least dunk the bearing in hytran before installing it, but I'd be more likely to coat it in some flavor of assembly lube. The assembly lube will stick and prevent the bearing from running dry until oil starts flowing, but once oil starts flowing, it will quickly dissolve and disappear into the oil.

[HydroTek]

That is not a bearing in the picture

it is part of a sprag clutch -- will fit in both ways -- but will only function correctly , if put in one direction

and yes, assembly lube -- I got to liking chainsaw bar oil -- either Poulan or Tractor Supply -- both are the thicker 'sticky' type

[Powerpoint]

I looked for assembly lube, and the one with the most good reviews is Lucas. It claims to be compatible with all motor oils, but does that also apply to hydraulic oil (hy-tran)? I have the impression that hydraulic oils are more sensitive to contamination if you mix in other chemicals.

When we're talking about assembly lubes anyway. I watch Jim's Automotive Machine Shop YouTube channel and they use ketchup, or at least ketchup bottles. Is that a common alternative?

 

[Maynard]

28 minutes ago, Powerpoint said:

I looked for assembly lube, and the one with the most good reviews is Lucas. It claims to be compatible with all motor oils, but does that also apply to hydraulic oil (hy-tran)? I have the impression that hydraulic oils are more sensitive to contamination if you mix in other chemicals.

When we're talking about assembly lubes anyway. I watch Jim's Automotive Machine Shop YouTube channel and they use ketchup, or at least ketchup bottles. Is that a common alternative?

 

I've been a fan of Lubriplate 105 grease for many years. Comes in a tube so it can't be easily contaminated. Blends with the oil as it warms. 

[Maynard]

36 minutes ago, Powerpoint said:

I looked for assembly lube, and the one with the most good reviews is Lucas. It claims to be compatible with all motor oils, but does that also apply to hydraulic oil (hy-tran)? I have the impression that hydraulic oils are more sensitive to contamination if you mix in other chemicals.

When we're talking about assembly lubes anyway. I watch Jim's Automotive Machine Shop YouTube channel and they use ketchup, or at least ketchup bottles. Is that a common alternative?

 

I think the bottles they use are just a handy vessel to reuse with whatever lube they prefer is that is bought in bulk.