Question

The Trailer Boat Experts

Do you have an opinion as to whether I should use a calcium soap grease or a lithium soap grease in my bearings and what's the difference between the two? L. Luchoff, Des Moines, IO

L. Luchoff

Answered on: 6/2005

GEORGE: You are going to get two opinions on this one. I think you will want to use lithium complex grease. It's designed for high temperature (325 degrees F) and has high water resistance. MIKE: I have always used calcium based grease. Not necessarily by an educated choice, but more so because that was what was available on the shelves as a waterproof bearing grease. After researching this a little bit, I can tell you that the calcium bearing grease "typically" has a higher dropping point (temperature at which the grease starts to melt) and is claimed to have better corrosion resistance. I have also seen a variation of lithium greases, some of which are not rated for use with disc brakes due to the higher operating temperatures. I will stick with the calcium based grease.

the Trailer Boat Expert: Mike and George