Oil bearingvs ballbearing

If in doubt about which grease to use in wheel bearings, consult the vehicle manufacturer and/or the bearing manufacturer. In general terms, light vehicle wheel bearings are adequately lubricated with an NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) Grade 2 multipurpose or EP grease with a base oil viscosity of approximately 200 centistokes and meeting NLGI Service Category GC, which covers service typical of wheel bearings operated in passenger cars, trucks and other vehicles under mild to severe duty.

Oil bearingreplacement

There are two types of lubrications for bearing application: oil vs grease. Both are helpful in lubricating rotation bearings to avoid damage due to bearing-to-bearing contact. However, there are a few differences in their applications and elements. For example, grease is oil mixed with thickeners and other additives.

Greases containing moly are recommended for roller bearings subjected to very heavy loads and shock loading, especially in slow or oscillating motion such as found in universal joints and CV joints. If such greases are used in high-speed bearings, problems can be experienced with roller “skidding” where the bearing roller fails to rotate through the full 360 degrees due to reduced friction. As a result, the roller develops flat spots, and its service life is reduced.

Oil bearingtypes

Now that you know the difference between oil vs grease for bearing lubrication, you must choose an option that matches your applications. However, you must maintain the right amount of lubrication to achieve optimum bearing life. Most importantly, buy high-quality lubricants from a reputable company like Lubchem, oil or grease.

In addition, CV joint grease is often manufactured to NLGI Grade 1 and would therefore not be suitable for automotive wheel bearings.

oil-bearing meaning

Oil lubrication is ideal for high-temperature and high-speed applications that require heat transfer away from the moving bearing surfaces. An oil lubricant flows, disperses, and dissipates heat better than grease. Oil lubrications can be synthetic or mineral, depending on the base compound. Besides, they have varying viscosities.

You can pick a lubricant that’s best for your application now that you know the operating conditions of oil and grease lubricants. For example, if the operating temperature for the bearings is high and requires faster heat dissipation, opt for oil lubrication. On the other hand, grease provides better seals against contaminants and is ideal for leakage control.

Grease lubricants have three main components: base oil, thickeners, and additives, such as rust inhibitors. Besides, grease is the better lubrication choice for linear guide and drive applications. That’s because it sticks to the bearing surfaces longer and is better than oil lubricants. Besides, it is less likely to run off or get ejected from rotating parts.

"A mechanic friend suggested I use CV joint grease containing molybdenum disulfide for the front-wheel bearings of my passenger car. Should I take his recommendation?"

Lack of bearing lubrication can result in bearing failure. Lubrication helps separate ball or roller bearings from the raceways, minimizing wear and friction. It also helps prevent corrosion and promotes the smooth running of the seals to reduce seal wear. As a result, it improves the effectiveness of the seals in keeping the lubrication within them.