Elgin 7.5 Twin Lower Unit

[mini-motors]

I’m refurbishing an Elgin 7.5 Twin (’54’ish), and need to know what to use for lube in the lower unit. I checked the Elgin website, and they say Lubriplate 105. But I find it hard to believe it uses something so thick. Lubriplate describes this product as an assembly lube, which also raises a flag in my mind. I would think that something a bit more "liquid" might be more appropriate, like modern outboards use. Thoughts?

Stan

[jim-moffatt]

The unit will not hold gear oil. Use either lubriplate 105 which has a misleading label (its fine for lower units) or use Cornhead grease or any other soft grease. Cornhead is available at Tractor supply stores made by John Deere.

[mini-motors]

Okay, I can believe that. I haven’t done any vintage lower unit work,so that’s why I asked. And the only reason I’m asking this next question is because I’m on a tight budget, and I have what I believe might work. So,what do you think of this?

http://www.belray.com/bel-ray-waterproof-grease

I use it to pack wheel bearings on my motorcycle, and and my trailer wheels. I’ve had a tub for 20+ years, and it won’t go away. It seems to me that this is similar to the Cornhead. I haven’t torn apart the L/U yet,but by the size of it, I think I have enough, and then some. If you guys say no, I’ll abide by your wisdom.

Thanks.

[jerry-ahrens]

I wouldn’t use the grease you mentioned. In its description it sayes it won’t melt or ”run out”. This is precisely what you DON’T want it to do. John Deere Cornhead is the best or Lubriplate 105 is good too.

[frankr]

The Cornhead/105 greases are very thin. Almost fluid but not quite. That lets it flow into the bushings, etc. I prefer the 105 simply because it comes in a squeeze tube.

[Mumbles]

http://www.greenpartstore.com/John-Deer … 02562.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UEwk_sYP6A8

[mini-motors]

Good video. And it says it all in the first line. While I was waiting for the answer to my last question, I found the specs on all 3 lubes in question. And all had different NLGI ratings, which have to do with viscosity related qualities. The Cornhead is 0, the 105 is 1, and the Bel-Ray is 2. I’ve used the Bel-Ray, and now I’ve seen the Cornhead, so I figure the 105 is somewhat in between. Depending on the amount of slop where the shaft exits the housing, I may use a dab of the Bel-Ray there, but I think I’ll go with the 105. I would still be curious of what Elgin specifically called for.

I’ve had 2 of these motors for a couple years, with hopes of getting both running. I’ve finally gotten off my hind parts and have realized that one is too far gone. But the other is coming along fine. The carb is done. Next will be getting the flywheel off and servicing the points, and then the L/U. The petcock was too far gone on both units, so I’ve obtained the fittings and a suitable valve. Once it runs, I can justify getting an impeller, and I’ll be off and cruising.

Thanks again for the advice. I’m sure I’ll be around, as I have 2 more motors to refurbish.

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