How to Choose Gear Lubricating Oil?
2 Answers
Mainly select suitable gear lubricating grease based on working conditions such as whether the gear is enclosed, rotational speed, operating temperature, water resistance, and load. Generally speaking, open gears have relatively high requirements for the adhesion of lubricating grease, and the volatilization loss of grease is also relatively large. Therefore, grease should be used more often.
When it comes to choosing gear lubricating oil, I do a lot of car repairs and believe the key is matching the vehicle's specs—don't just buy randomly. First, check the owner's manual—it usually specifies the recommended viscosity, like 75W-90 or 80W-140, which indicates low-temperature flow and high-temperature protection. Seasons also affect the choice: use low viscosity for winter to prevent freezing, and high viscosity for summer to withstand heat. Also, pay attention to oil certifications—standards like API GL-5 include anti-wear and anti-oxidation additives to protect gears from friction damage. Choosing the wrong oil can lead to excessive noise or gearbox burnout, so regularly check the oil's color (replace it if it turns black or has metal shavings). I recommend sticking with reputable brands and changing the oil no later than every two years or 80,000 kilometers—it’s cost-effective and ensures peace of mind.
