Lincoln Grease Gun Parts Diagram? All Answers

The grease gun is one of the most common tools you will see in your shop or manufacturing facility. It’s probably something you use regularly without much thought, but it’s important to know its inner workings, its various uses and components, and general best practices for using a grease gun.

For example, most maintenance departments use multiple types of grease guns, which can lead to cross-contamination and an incorrect measurement of performance. We discuss how the output is measured to ensure your fat output is accurate.

We’ll also break down the grease gun to reveal all of its component characteristics and look at other related topics such as common grease gun malfunctions, symptoms of incorrect lubrication amount or frequency, and outline some best practices for using a grease gun.

Types of Grease Guns Grease guns can be powered in three ways: hand, air, or electric. Aside from these variations, the hand-operated (or manual) grease guns can be made with either a lever or pistol grip. The particular benefits depend primarily on the intended application and personal preference of the lubrication technician. Another important grease gun variation is how the grease is to be loaded: by suction fill, cartridge, or bulk. Manual (Lever) – This is the most common type of grease gun and can deliver approximately 1.28 grams of grease per pump, which is forced through an orifice by hand pumps. Manual (pistol grip) – This variant of the lever-action grease gun allows for the very common one-handed pumping method. It delivers approximately 0.86 grams per pump. Pneumatic (Pistol Grip) – This grease gun uses pressurized air fed into the gun through a hose, giving a positive displacement with each trigger. Battery (Pistol Grip) – This is a low voltage battery operated grease gun that works similar to the pneumatic grease gun. It offers the advantage of being wireless.

It is fundamental that grease is used as a lubricant as it adheres to the moving surfaces of a machine without spilling easily like oil. For this reason, grease filling and topping up must be treated differently on grease-lubricated machines than on oil-lubricated machines. Therefore, it is imperative to bearing and machine reliability that the proper operation of the grease gun is understood and managed by lubrication technicians. Just knowing the signs of over- and under-greasing and how often to re-lubricate can significantly extend the life of machines.

Connectors, adapters and couplings

A grease gun can come with the standard connection adapter such as a hydraulic coupler, but there are several variations depending on the application. The standard hydraulic coupler is the most commonly used and most applicable. A 90 degree adapter is ideal for fittings in tight spaces that require a 90 degree bend. A needle end adapter delivers a thin, precise amount of grease for tight spots, while a three-jaw swivel provides a variety of locking positions for different applications.

Flexible hose vs. rigid hose

The decision to use a flexible hose or rigid tube will depend on the type of grease fitting and ease of machine placement, as well as the type of grease gun used. For example, a hard-to-reach spot would benefit from a flexible hose. Lever type grease guns on the other hand require both hands to pump the grease and would prefer the fixed tube alternative.

Accesories

Grease gun counters can be retrofitted to a grease gun to optimize lubricant consumption. Plastic caps offer advantages such as preventing corrosion and deposits. They can also be color coded to prevent cross contamination. Other accessories such as sonic/ultrasonic devices are also available.

grease nipple

Grease nipples have several names, such as B. Zerk fitting, grease nipple or Alemite fitting. This is the lubrication point where the grease nipple is attached. The standard hydraulic grease fitting is most commonly used for standard applications. It can be either upright or angled.

Button head fitting is ideal for good clutch engagement when large amounts of grease are added. A flush fitting is preferred when space for protruding standard fittings is limited, while the pressure relief vent fitting helps avoid higher pressures that could result in damaged seals.

Be sure to read How to Protect Grease Fittings from Contamination for more advice.

Machine health risks associated with grease guns

High grease gun pressure

A high-pressure manual grease gun is rated for 2,000 to 15,000 psi. Applying too much pressure while greasing will damage the bearing seals, which rarely handle more than 500psi. Symptoms of high grease gun pressure include collapsed bearing shields, damaged bearing seals, grease seeping into electric motor windings, and safety and environmental issues.

Frequency of relubrication

It is necessary to adjust the frequency of re-lubrication to optimal conditions in order to avoid long-term health problems of the machine. If the frequency is too long, symptoms can include lack of lubricant, which promotes wear, friction and grease contamination. If the frequency is too short, excessive fat consumption and safety and environmental problems may occur.

Use our handy calculator to determine the correct relubrication frequency and quantity.

over and underfatting

Knowing the exact amount of grease required for your lubrication application is important to avoid over- or under-greasing. Symptoms of over-greasing include damaged seals and motor windings, environmental issues, and fluid friction that results in increased heat build-up, higher rates of grease oxidation, and higher energy consumption. Symptoms of under-greasing include a lack of bearings, which leads to frictional wear and increased contamination.

How performance is measured

It is common for maintenance departments to have a variety of types, brands, and models of grease guns. This can lead to lubrication-related failures due to cross-contamination and imprecise knowledge of each grease gun’s performance per stroke. Grease guns have been known to vary in the amount of grease dispensed from 0.5 grams to more than 3 grams. This inconsistency depends on factors such as the type, model, and age of the grease gun.

In order to solve this problem, the amount of grease that comes out of a grease gun per stroke must be calculated. To do this, use a calibrated scale and evenly draw 10 strokes of fat onto the scale. Once this value is known, divide it by 10.

Best practices for grease guns

Calculate the correct amount of grease needed for relubrication of bearings based on the calibrated dispensing volume of the selected grease gun.

Use a bleeder plug on the bearing relief hole to flush out old grease and reduce the risk of over-pressurizing the bearing.

Use extreme caution when loading grease into the grease gun to ensure no contamination is introduced. If you are using a cartridge, be careful when removing the metal cap to avoid getting metal splinters in the grease.

Make sure the grease gun is clearly labeled to identify the grease it is to be filled with. Do not use any fat other than that specified.

Always ensure the grease gun dispensing nozzle is clean before use. Pump a small amount of grease from the dispensing nozzle, then wipe the nozzle with a clean rag or lint-free cloth before attaching to the grease fitting.

Clean any dirt from the grease nipple before attaching the grease gun. Check and replace damaged fittings. It is helpful to use grease fitting caps to keep them clean, but still wipe the grease fittings clean before applying grease.

Make sure that the correct grease is used at each lubrication point. Applying the wrong lubricant can create an incompatibility issue that can quickly lead to bearing failure. Lubrication points should be clearly marked as to which grease is to be used. This can be done with colored labels, adhesive dots or paint markers.

Grease guns should be stored without pressure in a clean, cool and dry place and in a horizontal position to prevent the oil from leaking out of the grease. Grease gun clips make storage easy and organized. Also cover the clutch to keep it free of dirt and debris.

Calibrate grease guns regularly to ensure correct dispensing rate.

Structure of a Grease Gun The lever is used on manual grease gun configurations to manually pump the grease from the barrel into the hose or tube. The trigger and handle are used in manual configurations of the grease gun to manually pump the grease from the barrel into the hose or tube in a manner similar to the lever. The barrel is the exoskeleton of the grease gun, which houses either the grease hose or the grease supplied from the bulk store. The grease tube (or cartridge) is an inserted grease housing that can be replaced when the grease is depleted. The hydraulic coupler (or fitting) is the connection point that holds the hose or solid tube that attaches to the grease gun head. The grease gun head contains grease paths and valves that allow the grease to be pumped from the barrel into the flexible hose or rigid tube. The fill nipple is the injection point for grease from a fill pump. The bleed nipple allows air to escape after new grease has been placed in the grease gun and pumped into the head. The spring provides the pressure on the piston. The flex rod (piston rod, cylinder rod, piston rod) helps the piston follow a smooth path as it maintains pressure on the lower end of the grease tube. It also causes the spring to retract before inserting a new tube of grease. The driver handle provides support when pulling the driver rod before inserting a new tube of grease. The piston applies even pressure to the rear end of the grease tube as the grease runs out. The flexible hose is used interchangeably with a rigid hose for flexible positioning of the connector or coupler. The rigid tube is a rigid form of flexible hose.

About the author

Although the use of grease guns is widespread, these tools deserve respect and should be used according to manufacturer’s safety guidelines to avoid injury.

There are four main types of grease guns on the market: manual, battery-powered, air-powered, and AC-powered grease guns. Each type has its own specific guidelines, but many general rules apply to all, such as: B. Training, proper use and care of tools, workplace safety and personal safety.

Manual grease guns

Manual grease guns include lever action and pistol grip models. These popular tools are widely used and are the most economical type of grease gun. Manual grease guns can reach pressures of up to 10,000 pounds per square inch (psi), while plug valve sealant guns can reach 15,000 psi.

Battery operated grease guns

Battery powered grease guns are ideal for speeding up routine greasing jobs. Using this type of grease gun can also help minimize operator fatigue. These grease guns are rated for 6,000 to 10,000 psi depending on the model.

Air powered grease guns

Air operated or pneumatic grease guns use compressed air to apply pressure to an air piston, which drives the grease piston and forces lubricant from the coupler into a grease fitting. Squeezing the gun trigger dispenses a steady flow of lubricant. Typically, pneumatic grease guns are rated up to 6,000 psi.

AC electric grease guns

Electric or corded AC grease guns provide a smooth flow of grease and are often used as an alternative to air-powered tools. AC electric grease guns are generally rated up to 7,000 psi.

education

Effective lubrication requires specialized training ranging from the actual physical activity of applying the lubricant to the effects of misapplication, including spills and damage to machinery. The operator should be trained for each piece of equipment to be lubricated as well as each grease gun used to accomplish the task.

“Some general rules for lubrication should also be considered,” said Americo dos Santos, senior product manager at Alemite. “Don’t apply lubricants to a running machine unless the fittings are in a safe place.

Never reach over, under, through or past moving parts of the device to complete your task. You should maintain a secure footing and balance at all times to allow better control of the tool in unexpected situations.”

Proper use and care of tools

Whether you are using a manual, battery, air or electric grease gun, the high pressure developed by the tool should be considered. High pressure can arise in different ways.

A common situation when high pressure is generated is what is known as a “frozen fitting”. If a fitting is not lubricated for a long time, the grease in the line can “cake”.

Mineral or vegetable oil in the grease is consumed, leaving a waxy, soapy base. This soap thickener makes grease semi-solid. Common soaps include calcium stearate, sodium stearate, and lithium stearate, and mixtures of these components.

High-pressure injection injuries can result from accidental injection of fat through the skin and into underlying tissue. Generally, fingers or hands suffer this type of injury, which is most likely to occur when a hose ruptures. Also, some lubrication applications require needle-type accessories that can cause injury if used improperly.

“An injection injury can be very small and essentially painless, and the injured person can be tempted to continue working,” explained dos Santos. “However, if you suffer any type of injection injury, you should seek medical attention immediately.

The lubricant must be removed and treatment instituted to prevent infection. If possible, provide the medical technician with the brand of affected grease or oil so the manufacturer can be contacted regarding possible toxicity of the lubricant.”

Safety features are available and precautions can be taken to minimize the risk associated with the use of high pressure grease guns. The key is using the right tool for the job. Do not improvise or alter the configuration of the grease gun for any purpose other than that for which it was intended.

It is important that any components used are rated for the pressure that will be exerted, so you should only use hoses specified by the grease gun manufacturer. For example, if your grease gun is rated for 10,000psi and your hose is only rated for 1,500psi, the situation can become dangerous very quickly.

“It’s also important that you check the hose between the grease gun and the coupler before each use,” points out dos Santos. “If the hose shows signs of wear or damage, do not use it.”

When loading a grease cartridge into the grease gun, the carriage rod should be securely snapped onto the end cap to prevent it from springing back unexpectedly.

Be careful when removing the pull tab on the cartridge to avoid cutting yourself on the sharp edges of the tab. Also, always point the grease coupler away from your body when loading and preparing the grease gun. You don’t want to risk getting grease in your eyes.

Battery powered grease guns have a few safety guidelines of their own. For example, the power switch should be off before inserting the battery.

The battery pack should always be disconnected from the grease gun before changing accessories or unscrewing the grease cylinder from the grease gun. Never attempt to open the battery pack or expose it to water.

When not in use, keep the battery away from metal objects such as paper clips, coins, keys, nails, screws, or other small objects that can connect from one port to another.

Under abusive conditions, battery leakage can occur and should be avoided. In case of contact with this liquid, flush with water. If the liquid gets in your eyes, see a doctor.

When using a battery charger, use only the charger specified by the manufacturer. Make sure the cable is routed so that it will not be walked on, tripped over, or otherwise subjected to stress.

Do not operate the charger with a damaged cord or plug, or if it has received a violent shock or been dropped. You should also refrain from charging batteries or using an electric (corded) grease gun in wet areas.

“Other workplace practices include the operation, care and maintenance of your grease gun,” noted dos Santos. “Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using your grease gun. Avoid kinking hoses as this can weaken them and make them more prone to breakage.

Be sure to label your grease gun so you can identify the type of grease in that particular gun. Also, be sure to wipe the grease fittings and grease nipples clean before connecting to avoid contamination.”

Battery operated, air operated, and AC electric grease guns can build up extreme pressures that may not be noticeable to the user. Therefore, special care should be taken with these tools. Never exceed the maximum inlet air pressure on pneumatic tools.

Most of these grease guns use a 40 to 1 ratio of grease pressure to air, which means that considerable pressure is generated with a relatively low input air pressure.

Keep grease guns clean and do not place them on dirty surfaces. All repairs should be performed by a qualified technician using only genuine replacement parts. Finally, greasy work often gets on your hands during greasing work, so be sure to wash them to remove any chemical residue.

Safety at work

Regardless of the type of grease gun you choose, it’s important to keep your work area clean and well-lit. Congested and dark areas invite accidents of many kinds. Oil or grease spilled on floors, walkways and ladders can cause serious falls and fire hazards.

Wipe up spilled lubricant immediately or use absorbent drying pads or granules. Lubricant leak sources should be repaired to maintain a safe environment.

“If using a power tool, make sure the area is free of any flammable liquid, gas or dust that could ignite if the tool creates a spark,” added dos Santos.

“In addition, power tools should not be exposed to rain or moisture and care should be taken not to damage the cord as this may increase the risk of electric shock.”

Minimize distractions such as B. Bystanders while operating your grease gun as they may distract your attention from the task at hand. Never play around with a grease gun or use it for practical jokes.

Personal security

It is recommended to wear personal protective equipment including safety goggles, gloves and non-slip shoes or boots to avoid injury. Do not wear jewelry or loose or torn clothing that could become caught in moving parts.

Stay alert when using a grease gun. You should never operate a tool when tired or impaired by alcohol or medication as a moment of inattention can result in serious injury.

By employing sound procedures, training, and proper tool use and care, you can maximize the potential benefits from proper grease gun lubrication techniques while maintaining worker safety.

About the author

The M-3 submachine gun, commonly known as the “grease gun” due to its resemblance to the mechanic’s tool of the same name, was the most basic firearm issued to US combat troops in the 20th century. In Vietnam, the Grease Gun was a favorite because it delivered instant firepower at close range, was tolerant of the field environment, and was easy to maintain.

The M-3 and its improved M-3A1 variant entered US Army service in 1943 as a low-cost replacement for the 1928 Thompson or M-1 submachine gun, and saw extensive service in World War II and Korea. The original production model, with its distinctive cocking handle, had been completely replaced by the M-3A1 before US troops deployed to Vietnam. Lighter and more reliable than the previous version, the M-3A1 was issued to the South Vietnamese Army, Air Force and regional forces as part of the US military assistance program. American forces also carried the M-3A1, particularly in the early years before the M-16 was issued in large numbers. Even then, virtually every American and South Vietnamese tank crew had at least one M-3A1 on board. It was also found on US Navy ships, river gunboats, SEAL teams, and military police units.

The Grease Gun was a blowback-operated submachine gun that fired a .45 caliber pistol cartridge from a 30-round magazine that loaded under the receiver. It could easily be converted to fire 9mm ammunition. The M-3A1 fired from an open breech and only in full auto mode. It had no mechanical means of releasing the trigger. Inserting the magazine loads the gun, and opening the ejection port primes it. Closing the ejection port prevented firing. Some guns had a muzzle flash hider, but this was not a standard feature.

All parts of the M-3A1 were stamped except for the barrel, breech and firing mechanism, which were precision machined. This not only reduced manufacturing costs, but also simplified on-site maintenance. You could cannibalize a damaged weapon to repair a serviceable one. The Grease Gun was a robust, comparatively light automatic weapon that was easy to clean and maintain.

The only constant complaints about the M-3A1 were its tendency to rust in salt air environments, and loaded grease guns could fire if dropped on a hard surface with sufficient force to open the ejection port and shock the trigger. However, its simplicity and reliability made it a popular weapon in Vietnam among helicopter and tank crews, provincial reconnaissance units, mobile strike forces (Mike) and civilian irregular defense groups. It was also found in most infantry squads of the Republic of Vietnam Army before 1970, and the Viet Cong used captured grease guns, along with some ex-Chinese nationalist weapons provided by the People’s Republic in the late 1950s. More than 670,000 were produced before the last production line closed in 1952 and served with the US Army until 1992.