Operating a swimming aid in an aggressive salty environment is the ownerβs constant struggle with corrosion. Sea lubricant It is the first and foremost barrier to protect the complex machinery of the outboard motor from the destructive effects of chlorides, and neglect of regular maintenance and the use of specialized compounds inevitably leads to costly repairs or complete replacement of the units.
Unlike freshwater, seawater contains high concentrations of salts that accelerate electrochemical reactions to metal oxidation. Conventional car or industrial fats are quickly washed out and lose their properties, leaving rubbing surfaces defenseless. marine grease It is developed taking into account the specifics of work in conditions of constant contact with water and temperature changes.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the chemical composition of protective materials, the selection criteria for different engine components and the step-by-step conservation algorithm. You will learn how lithium, calcium and disulfide compositions differ, and also get answers to frequently asked questions on care. outboard.
Chemical composition and classification of marine lubricants
The basis of any quality lubricant is the base oil and thickener, whose properties determine the scope of the product. For marine conditions, water resistance and the ability to form a strong adhesive film are critical. marine grease It is a calcium sulfonate that provides excellent protection against rust even when water enters the node.
Lithium lubricants, often labeled as Lithium ComplexThey are very stable and mechanically stable, and they are great for rolling bearings and high-speed assemblies, where the temperature can rise significantly during operation. However, not all lithium compounds are equally effective in salt water, so you need to pay attention to the presence of special anti-corrosion additives.
β οΈ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to mix lubricants based on different thickeners (for example, lithium and calcium). A chemical reaction can lead to liquefaction of the composition and complete leakage of the lubricant from the node, which will cause jamming of the mechanism.
For nodes subject to extreme loads, such as sled joints of the propeller shaft, solid additive formulations are used. Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) or graphite creates an extra layer to prevent the metal from being bullied even in the absence of a liquid lubricating film, often black or dark gray and not designed for high-speed bearings.
The secret to the durability of lubrication
Why don't regular fats work?
Conventional sodium-based lubricants are easily emulsified with water, turning into a kind of mayonnaise that is washed out in a matter of hours. Marine lubricants have a water-repelling structure and contain corrosion inhibitors that passivate the surface of the metal, stopping oxidation even in microscopic scratches. ->
Criteria for the selection of lubricant for different engine components
The right material depends on which unit you plan to serve. There is no one-size-fits-all solution that is ideal for both screw hub bearings and shaft shaft shaft shafts. Choosing an error can lead to accelerated wear and tear or corrosion. When buying, you need to follow the engine manufacturer's recommendations listed in the service book. outboard motor.
Roller shaft bearings and propeller hubs require high adhesion and water-repellent compounds, often using lithium-based NLGI 2 lubricants with anti-oxidation additives, which must withstand centrifugal forces and not be splashed when the shaft is rotated. Water resistance This is the number one priority in this node.
The shaft squids require materials that withstand impact and prevent fretting corrosion, and the best choice is molybdenum disulfide lubricants, which allow metal surfaces to slide relative to each other without jamming, and it is important that the material does not contain substances that cause corrosion of non-ferrous metals, such as zinc or copper.
