The choice of marine lubricants South Africa can be complicated. Hundreds of different oils, greases, and other lubricants are on the market. Some are better for certain applications than others, while others are designed to handle a range of temperatures. The right oil can help keep your boat’s gear running smoothly and prevent rust and corrosion from causing damage.
Determine whether the grease you use is suitable for your application
The first thing you should do is determine whether the grease you use is suitable for your application. If you’re using grease that’s meant for other uses, you’re likely to experience poor performance. In particular, you should avoid mixing marine greases of different viscosity ratings. The combination can lead to breakdown and trailer damage.
Select oil that has a viscosity rating
The viscosity of the grease will affect its stickiness to moving parts. You’ll want to select oil with a viscosity rating appropriate for your application. However, a viscosity rating is only sometimes listed on the packaging. You should tell if a lubricant is compatible with your boat’s specific needs by speaking with a lubricant expert.
A lithium-based lubricant is good for higher temperatures. It can handle temperatures up to 250 F. If you’re not relying on grease with an API rating, you can opt for general-purpose grease like WD-40. It can be used for other purposes, but it doesn’t have the corrosion protection of a marine lubricant.
Determine the level of complexity of the additive package
If you’re using grease that has an API rating, you can determine the level of complexity of the additive package. The higher the rating, the more complex the package is. This indicates that the product has been engineered for specific performance. Ideally, the lubricant should have the correct additives in the right concentration. If it hasn’t, it may be time to change your oil.
Marine engines are designed to operate for long periods at high RPMs. Keeping a lubricant with anti-wear additives can help mitigate wear caused by heavy loads. The engine must run smoothly to ensure maximum performance.
A silicone-based lubricant is suitable for applications with low temperatures. It’s good for electrical connections and runners but not wheel bearings. If your boat uses a winch, you’ll need a marine lubricant that can withstand water exposure.
