When I worked at Edson, we used nylon caged stainless steel needle bearings in 
our pedestals, similar to what I’ve seen used in Lewmar and Barient winches.  
Our recommended lubricant was a Teflon based lubricant called Super Lube, 
available in small .3 oz tubes with an applicator nozzle or in 3oz or 14oz 
tubes.  I’ve found this lubricant to be available at most Ace Hardware stores.  
The issue with using a petroleum based lubricant with nylon caged bearings was 
the cage was susceptible to deterioration as a result of the grease acting like 
a solvent to the cage materials.  Over time the cages would soften up and fail 
to support the needle bearings under load.

I think Dave is on the right track, indicating that each manufacturer has its 
own specific branded lube that would be compatible with the bearing materials 
used in the winch.  The key component is that petroleum wheel bearing grease, 
straight out of the automotive garage may not be suitable on several levels, 
either with regards to chemical compatibility or with viscosity.  

Chuck Gilchrest

Half Magic

1975 25 Mk 1 (still for sale!)

 

Orion

1983 35 Landfall

Pandanaram, MA

 

 

From: CnC-List [mailto:cnc-list-boun...@cnc-list.com] On Behalf Of DaviWd 
Knecht via CnC-List
Sent: Sunday, March 13, 2016 10:33 AM
To: CnC CnC discussion list <cnc-list@cnc-list.com>
Cc: David Knecht <davidakne...@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: Stus-List winch grease

 

My interpretation of what I have read is that it is not about the compatibility 
of the grease with the plastic (although that could be an issue),  but more 
about how to effectively lubricate a plastic bearing.  I think they are 
thinking about the stickiness of the grease (any grease) and suggesting it is 
better to use an oil with those lightweight plastic bearings.  I don’t remember 
any such warning on the Lewmar winch grease, although it looks and feels 
different (dark color) from the Harken (white grease).  However, the Barient 
instructions on the C&C site says to lubricate everything except the pawls with 
Barlube, which I presume is a grease, so likely I am worrying too much.    Dave

 

Aries

1990 C&C 34+

New London, CT




 

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