I am due to clean my auto locking hubs soon using Guzzles site for instructions as this will be the 1st time I will have attempted this.


Per guzzle instructions is "Clean all the parts with an automotive parts cleaner solvent. Do not use solvent that will damage nylon or neoprene rubber. Make sure you clean out all of the old grease in the bearing you found on the gear assembly.".

I've read gas, diesel, kerosene,acetone, brake cleaner, all due well on grease, I just don't want to use anything that will damage the nylon or neoprene rubber.

I would like to know what solvent, and how everyone cleans the grease off all the parts.

My other question is on the grease which I really have no knowledge on. I use Mobile 1 synthetic grease for chassis and steering
My truck specifies : lithium-base grease High Temperature 4x4 Front Axle and Wheel Bearing Grease E8TZ-19590-A (ESA-M1C198-A) or equivalent, but looks to be difficult to come by.

I fouind this on ebay, but $30 a tube I think is ridiculous. (I could be wrong)

https://www.ebay.com/itm/OEM-FORD-MO...1X6te6&vxp=mtr

Is there an alternative high temp grease to use?

As always, this is where I come for any information because of the very knowledgeable people and any advice is greatly appreciated.

 

This is what I use.

 

I'd use something like WD 40 to clean them out with, then use your grease to lube.

 

Just did mine tonight after noticing the driver side hub was difficult to turn into locking position. I just used towels to clean all the parts of old grease, but I can see where a solvent would have spared me some effort with better removal. I usually use synthetic where I can but I had some Valvoline grease laying around. All works as new now. I wouldn't stress too much over not using that $30 grease.

 

My thought was using brake kleen... or possibly soak in acetone, gas or kerosene, to break it all up, then finish it up with brake cleaner. Was just trying to find out how others do it and go from there.
Just wasn't sure if any of those things were bad for the nylon and rubber parts. I want to make sure I clean out all the old grease before switching to a new grease.

 

Some of that stuff is pretty harsh, that's why I said WD. Wipe it out the best you can, spray with lubricant type cleaner, then re-lube and install. What did Gruzz instructions say to use? Anyway that's how I did mine.

 

 

I use that on a lot of parts also. Wasn't sure about it here. It should be a lot better then some of the other things you listed.

 

I've read on many different sites that those I listed do a very good job, gas was lower on the scale due to it's flammability' though i would take the precautions if I used that. I would also not use it on any of the plastic or rubber.
The Guzzles instructions just said to Clean all the parts with an automotive parts cleaner solvent but did not list any type.Contact cleaner never crossed my mind and sounds like a good option.

Thanks for the suggestions all.

 

I used electrical contact cleaner on them and Valvoline SyPower Synthetic Grease:


It comes in a tube or a tub.

I used Mobil 1 Synthetic grease for y-e-a-r-s. Google this, Google that, and I was convinced to try out the Valvoline above. I used it when I installed the Dynatrac as a test (it requires a LOT of grease during install) and have been very happy with it. I still use Mobil 1 fluids but I've switched to Valvoline Synpower full synthetic as "my" grease.