Grease cylinder rods for storage?

DSM · Sep 14, 2003

I have the loader and backhoe removed from my BX22 until after the fall leaf deluge. I have the MMM and a Trac Vac mounted. The manuals recommend applying grease to the cylinder piston rods for storage. They will be sitting, indoors, for about 2 months. Is this really necessary? My Dad has had a Case 646 with loader and backhoe for 25 years and we never did this, and never had any rusting. Also, I presume I should clean the grease off before using the attachments?

RoyJackson · Sep 14, 2003

The piston rods of the cylinders are chromed for wear and rust resistance.

I have put a light film of grease on the rods if the loader was not to be used for a month or so. Of course, turned out, the loader was used more then I expected.

Never wiped the grease off though...first time you cycle the hydraulics, the wipers will take care of that.

Good chrome plating will keep rust at bay. Greasing the rods is a bit of an insurance policy. It's sort of like putting a film of gun oil down the barrel of a rifle.

frank_f15 · Sep 14, 2003

welcome to the forum! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif don't beleive it tis necessary to grease the shafts. if u think u will not be using them for a long time it might make u feel better to give them a light coating of oil. can't hurt.

Junkman · Sep 14, 2003

I usually just spray mine with WD 40 to keep the moisture off when the humidity is high and it is cold..... Iron has a habit of drawing moisture to it under certain conditions.... Some people refer to it as "sweating"....

StoneHeartFarm · Sep 15, 2003

My dealer recommended greasing the shafts, but only if the loader would be setting for a long period (several months), outside in the weather. Just a light coat of ordinary axle grease.

Steve

chrisjbell · Sep 18, 2003

I usually don't put anything on the cylinders on my FEL but my backhoe sits for longer. I think grease is the best solution, but I've also used WD40, figuring it is better than nothing. I don't think WD40 will damage the seals - that would be the only concern.

I've also left them sitting for a month or so with no use, no treatment (thought I'd be getting to that job sooner, ya know /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif) and have not had any corrosion or sticking. /forums/images/graemlins/laugh.gif

DwightD123 · Apr 11, 2012

Bringing this post back from the dead...but I am wondering with the new invention (?) of fluid film. Would this be a good option for the cylinder rods?

PHILIP8N · Apr 11, 2012

If I cannot retract all rods, I spray them with Fluid Film if stored outside. That is what I do with my snow blade. Philip.

ccsial · Apr 11, 2012

I use Fluid Film as well. My AG dealer buys in bulk and sprays all their stuff on the lot.

Dr_Zinj · Apr 11, 2012

We always applied grease to exposed cylinders of AF equipment going into deep storage AND covered them with paper to keep the dirt out.

Chrome + grease + paper = triple protection

Considering the cost of a new cylinder, a little time and effort is a good investment.