CHASSIS INFORMATION — 10
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20 08 CONTESSA
Lubricant Classication:
Lubricants are manufactured in many forms for
a variety of applications. There are many different
oil and grease consistencies each with a designed
application. To properly select a particular type of
lubricant for a specic application, the component
must be evaluated. Component stress loads,
ambient temperature, working temperature and
environmental exposure are just a few of the
variables to consider. Select the proper lubricant
for its intended application. As an example:
selecting high viscosity grease to lubricate a lock
cylinder results in sluggish lock cylinder operation
especially in a cool environment.
Conversely, using graphite to lubricate a
component that is under extreme temperature
and load will result in component failure.
Grease ratings and their base compounds are
especially important when selecting a lubricant
type for an intended application. Some grease
compounds are manufactured for multi-use
application. These are acceptable if the grease
rating is in accordance with the manufacturer’s
recommended lubricant type and rating.
Lubricants:
Many chassis components require lubrication.
The types of lubricants used will vary with the
application of the component. A component
may fail prematurely due to lack of lubrication
or from using an incorrect lubricant type. The
component manufacturer usually recommends
a particular type of lubricant with a minimum
approval rating. Most lubricants are tested under
strict guidelines set by the ASTM (American
Society for Testing and Materials).
The NLGI (National Lubricating Grease
Institute) helps disperse information to the
grease production industry. Grease containers
usually have an approval rating by the SAE
(Society of Automotive Engineers), Mil Spec
(Military Specication), API (American
Petroleum Institute) or by other recognized
and accepted organizations. The correct
lubricant type with an approved specic rating
must be used whenever applying, changing
or adding any lubricant. When purchasing
lubricants for a specic application be sure
the label afrms the type of lubricant required
with the tested rating by the term “meets or
exceeds” in accordance with the manufacturer
specications.
Lubricating greases are made from different
base compounds giving the grease different
lubricating consistencies, properties and
maximum operating temperatures. Most
containers list the base compound and
maximum operating temperature usually listed
as melting point or drip point. Lubricating
components, such as brake component for
example, require a high temperature special
base compound grease. Lubricating this type of
component with other than specied grease type
will result in inadequate lubricating qualities
resulting in component malfunction or failure.
INSPECTION:
When performing any scheduled
maintenance, inspect the area around
where you are working. For example,
changing the oil, look at the rear
differential. Inspect for visual signs of
fluid leaks.
Most uids and lubricants have a distinct
odor, which can be used to detect early signs of
trouble. Generally, odors are most detectable
soon after parking. Unusual sounds are another
method of detecting a problem early. There are
many types of sounds that are normal, such
as the cyclic purging of the air dryer. Become
familiar with the different sounds. If something
sounds odd, smells peculiar or looks unusual,
investigate the situation.
Greasing:
Thoroughly clean all Zerk grease ttings
before applying new lubricant. Keep paper
towels or disposable rags handy when greasing.
When lubricating items such as drive shafts
and steer axle components, continued grease
application is generally required until new
grease appears at exit points.
Some items use sealed boots around the
component to prevent moisture intrusion. When
greasing these types of components, care must
be given to prevent excess lubricant pressure
from rupturing the seal.
WARNING:
Always chock wheels before going
underneath the motorhome.
WARNING:
Never place yourself under motorhome
without first properly blocking frame
(jackstands) from coming down in case
of rapid deflation of air system.
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