PART OF LUBRICATION

Southland Times, Issue 23141, 6 March 1937, Page 20

PART OF LUBRICATION

A Continuous Film Of Oil ■■ Prevents Wear

The following article is one of a series taken from a booklet entitled “I Drive Safely”, published by the International Harvester Company in an endeavour to reduce the number of highway accidents that are at present taking such a tremendous toll of life and property: —

Where two surfaces move against each other, it is generally understood that an adequate, continuous film of oil. between the surfaces will prevent undue wear. The various units in motor-vehicles require several different kinds and grades of lubricants. Some must stand up under extreme heat, as in the engine. Others, used where great loads are carried, must be of a heavier type. The right lubricant for use at various points has been determined accurately through years of service and - research experience. If the manufacturer’s instructions are followed we will have more safe and dependable equipment on the road. Every truck, bus, and motor-car manufacturer supplies purchasers with instruction books covering lubrication and other subjects pertaining to vehicle care and operation. How many of us use this valuable information? If we do not service the vehicle ourselves, are we sure that the work we pay for and which may affect the safety of ourselves and others, has been done intelligently? . It is important that any motor-vehicle be serviced with the right kind of lubricants according to the manufacturer s recommendations. When the engine oil level is down, the experienced driver does not simply ask for a quart of oil. He requests the type that he knows is best suited to his engine. The educational information sponsored by automotive manufacturers and reputable oil companies has taught most of us to find out what grade is best adapted to our engine and to see that we get it. Most of us, however, forget all about the other parts of our truck or car—the steering mechanism, wheel bearings, universal joints, transmissions, axles, etc. How can we expect good service from these units unless the lubricant is periodically replaced with new lubricant of the right quality and quantity? We must also see that it is properly retained so as to keep out dirt and avoid unnecessary loss.

This last-mentioned point is important in several respects. For example, take the rear axle. The best lubricant available, if not properly retained, due to defective and worn parts, is worse than no lubricant at all. On the other hand, too much is nearly as bad. What do such conditions result in? Just this: A certain amount works out into the brake drums, soaks into the lining, and we have defective brakes, which, as previously pointed out, are a menace on the highway. All the adjustment in the world will not remedy such a condition. Inferior lubricants or the wrong kind are capable of producing the same results. In many cases their inability to withstand high pressures and temperatures, as in wheel bearings, causes lubricant to break down, melt, and run off the brake lining. In the long run the safest and most economical method is to take advantage of the excellent service facilities offered by factory branches, reputable dealers, and oil companies. They have specialized equipment, and trained men who know what to do, and who realize the importance of keeping motorvehicles in safe operating condition.