CV axle boot grease mix up.

Guys! Replaced the 4x4 cv axle boots and I think I accidentally reversed the grease (black in inner & brown in outer) ... should I be worried?

 

Yes, your truck will immediately explode. DO NOT DRIVE IT.

Kidding...

I can't find anywhere that describes why there are different greases. Inner black stuff apparently is a thicker moly, and the lighter outter stuff is CV lube, whatever that means. I can't see why there's a difference, they both spin the same speed so it's not like you need thicker grease on one end to resist it flinging off.

 

Lol I know right??? Like why complicate it just use thick on both sides. Moly. Anywho if my truck does explode in future due to this mix up ill be sure to report it for yall lol.

 

Constant velocity joint grease is a very deliberate and specific blend. No other grease should ever be substituted. There are not any alternatives that I have found and which manufacturers will accept.

 

I run Redline CV2 in both ends of my CV axles.

Cause fuck it, I'm rebelious like that.

 

Literally every grease is special when you read the label.


However, as a practical matter, I fail to see *why* it is so special, especially to the point of using 2 different greases on each side of the same part (CV). Your post, like all others I've seen trying to find an answer just say it's special, and never explain *why*.


This just reminds me of all the "debate" over the specially formulated coolants or brand specific engine oil (that's usually much more expensive) that MUST be used in our trucks. I have yet to be convinced any of that actually matters.

 

Sure wish I knew the why answer. There obviously is one, hence the deliberate and specific mix to make up the CVJ lube.

You have to admit that there are times you don't want to use a non-specific grease in certain application. As simple as "don't use non-water proof grease on boat control surfaces", "don't use low volatility grease in high temperature environments", "don't use bacon grease to lubricate your tent zipper, while in bear country".
So I'd have to think the opposite is true as well: in that you do want to use a specific and specialized grease in certain areas.

I only passed on knowledge that was given to me about CVJ grease being a different breed. Can't give you the why it's that way.

 

I can actually see where there would be a difference in the CV greases.

The inner joint has needle bearings and it has quite a bit more movement. Not only does the inner joint articulate up/down/around... it also moves in and out.

The outer joint is just basically comprised of big assed ball bearings inside a spider/race.

I'd say... especially because of the needle bearings, you would need a grease that can lubricate at a higher temp and thinner viscosity... in the inner joint.




I still just run Redline CV2 in both inners and outers.

 

Well no, you use bacon grease on your FRIEND'S tent zipper. duh.

When you look at who is generally giving the "you must use this type of product" advice, it's coming from the manufacturer, so it's not exactly a non-biased source of information. They're selling something.

Here's a bit I found from:
https://www.penriteoil.com.au/applications/car-4wd/greases/cv-joint-grease

In other words, this crap can be used for a LOT of stuff, not just CVs. Which begs the question: why can't the grease that's "specially formulated" for those other uses be used for CVs, too?"

 

Was it wrong to use Bear Grease with the New CV boots

 

I think baby seal blubber works best.

 

Darn Bears are right outside Baby seals means going to the water .

I guess Long Island Must have seal colonies

 

I guess I'm spoiled here in CA, we can go right over to Point Reyes for a fresh supply.

Ok, technically they're sea lions...

 

It's wrong, but its not critical, I would leave it, delete this thread and live my life without worry.

 

I run CV2 on both sides as well. Hell, I even run it on my supercharger bearings as well.

 

Lol bacon grease. Here in Commifornia we cant even use straws anymore. Organic seal blubber has to he smuggled in. I just carefully removed the clamps and reswitched grease and reclamped. Dont wanna take chances. Worked fine.

 

Very wrong if its Polar bear grease.

 

My personal favorite is baby seal blubber... but only if it's not shot. You don't ruin the blubber if you club them.