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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