Lubricants and grease (1st bike build)

robst3
robst3 Posts: 145
edited November 2011 in MTB workshop & tech
So I am planning to commence on my first bike build this evening. All components have arrived, just the putting together left to do.

I have looked through the instructions and there is some mention of greasing threads of components etc but it never specifies the TYPE of grease that should be used...

Can anyone recommend which type should be used for each component? If it helps I will be installing an SLX 10spd drive train, Revelation forks and a hope pick n mix headset to a carbon on-one 456 frame.

Any replies apreciated,

Rob

Comments

  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    most bike greases will do and some threadlock.

    have a read of Parktools webby.
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • mfereborn
    mfereborn Posts: 480
    My simple and rough guide which ive adapted from the world of motorbikes:

    high torque component threads & steel bolts - copper grease (prevents seizure of parts)
    Note: do not use copper grease on moving parts as it will act as an abrasive.

    Bearings, Axles, steerers, hubs, and other moving parts - moly grease (i have texaco black which although looks minging works brilliantly)

    Gears, sprockets etc - used motor oil or moly grease (this sticks well in wet weather but also holds dirt - be aware of that, it could do more harm than good)

    Threads that arnt high torque and may encounter high vibration get threadlock blue

    Alternatively you can buy specific bike oils but these cost a lot more ;)
    The Frog: Lapierre Zesty 214 2010 - Upgraded - W.I.P
  • robst3
    robst3 Posts: 145
    Thanks for the replies. I will go with some moly grease and some loctite 242/248. I was going to get some lithium based grease before I saw mfereborn's reply - consensus seems to be that moly is more water-resistant.
  • Chunkers1980
    Chunkers1980 Posts: 8,035
    I'd be wary of threadlock. Once put on people tend to assume everything will be fine indefinitely. Best practice is to check bolt torque on a regular basis as part of general maintenance checks.
  • nicklouse
    nicklouse Posts: 50,675
    gears and sprokets. Dont use Motor oil it causes more issues than it helps. Get some Cycle chain lube. (NOT MC chain lube).

    as has been mentioned anti sieze i just that and not a lube.

    Lithium grease is not cycle suitable due to hardening.

    more reading

    viewtopic.php?p=15494535
    viewtopic.php?t=12640321&view=previous
    viewtopic.php?p=16127688
    viewtopic.php?p=14591868
    "Do not follow where the path may lead, Go instead where there is no path, and Leave a Trail."
    Parktools :?:SheldonBrown
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    Got a carbon frame there, so just make sure you clean up any excess copper grease if you use it so it's not left on the frame. Don't know if that's really important but have read some caution against the stuff on carbon.

    Additionally, carbon paste may be worth getting for clamping things to carbon. At least for the seatpost if it's alloy (maybe carbon posts too, not sure), and same if you've got carbon bars to stick things to. Just helps reduce the pressure required to clamp things to carbon bits and gives you more confidence you aren't going to damage things. I find the seatpost slips no matter how tightly clamped so it's needed really for me. On bars, you could do without, just be careful and file off any burrs on shifters/brake clamps, etc.

    Did my C456 build last week. Took time due to constantly checking I'm doing everything right and being over cautious about carbon. But it's pretty simple really. Headset seating and BB shell threads need a clean with a wire brush I found but no reaming, chasing, facing required. Grease up bits appropriately. Use a press for the headset (this is where I was cautious as the frame made creaking sounds!). Screw on BB. Everything else is like any other bike.
  • Anonymous
    Anonymous Posts: 79,667
    Oh, and what size frame? Hopefully not 16" with Revelations!

    Note: 16 inch frame is not compatible with certain models of tapered steerer forks (Rockshox Reba / Sector / Revelation)
  • mfereborn
    mfereborn Posts: 480
    nicklouse wrote:
    gears and sprokets. Dont use Motor oil it causes more issues than it helps. Get some Cycle chain lube. (NOT MC chain lube).

    Im interested in this, why do you say so?
    I am actually interested so apologies for sounding like im going to jump down your throat, i really would like to learn this!
    The Frog: Lapierre Zesty 214 2010 - Upgraded - W.I.P
  • robst3
    robst3 Posts: 145
    deadkenny wrote:
    Oh, and what size frame? Hopefully not 16" with Revelations!

    Note: 16 inch frame is not compatible with certain models of tapered steerer forks (Rockshox Reba / Sector / Revelation)

    20" :)

    Can't wait to ride the bazza. Tried to buy some bits to make a DIY headpress during my lunch today but they didn't have the right ones :(

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