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AFT Lubrication
Posted: Tue Mar 22, 2016 5:41 pm
by BigPanzer
Hi,
About time I lubricated the AFT mechanism on Bongy, but what grease do people use for best results? I don't want to use anything that is going to pick up windblown grit, dust or sand, so what type of grease is the favourite?
I've done a search, but haven't found much info.
Thank You
Peter
Re: AFT Lubrication
Posted: Tue Mar 22, 2016 8:13 pm
by g8dhe
You really only need to grease the bearings that the white wheels run on, no point in putting anything on the runners themselves. The gas struts just need wiping down as they are self oiling as they pass thru the seals into the internal chamber.
Re: AFT Lubrication
Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2016 7:31 pm
by BigPanzer
Hi,
Thanks Geoff. I've given the struts a good wipe and given them a VERY thin smear of gloopy silicone gun oil, which I've found in the past works well where rubber seals meet metal and it doesn't attract crud.
At some time in the past (possibly before import) somebody has slapped a liberal coating of what looks and smells suspiciously like old Vaseline on all the runners. I'm not sure this is the best thing to use, bearing in mind the de-naturing effect that petroleum based lubricants have on plastics. However, the wheel bearings themselves feel completely unlubed and quite rough. As you pointed out there seems little point in applying a shovel full of grease in these locations.
Next I will take the motor covers off and see if there is any sign of corrosion or lack of lube in there.
Problem was that the roof was going up fine until the last few inches, when it would start juddering. Only cleaned the struts so far and it does seem better.
Cheers
Peter
Re: AFT Lubrication
Posted: Wed Mar 23, 2016 7:38 pm
by haydn callow
White lithium grease does the trick and it won't stain the tent material. Halfords have it in a spray can.