Cutter gear box fun

[Norman]

I bought an old (probably VERY old) 5’ sidewinder cutter. It’s rough, but it works. Going through it all now so I know what condition it’s in. Today was gearbox day. I know the seals were shot so I expected grease on the box. I was not disappointed. Based on the consistency I think it’s #1 or possibly #2 grease. Question for the collective, should I clean this out and replace with corn head grease (I have enough to fill the box)? Or just button it up and send it?

 

[mcfarmall]

Clean, inspect, repair, replace any damaged or worn parts, fill to proper level with corn head grease.

 

[hedgerow]

Clean, inspect, repair, replace any damaged or worn parts, fill to proper level with corn head grease.

This is how I would handle it. I have very few gearboxes on the farm that have 80/90 gear oil in them. I use corn head grease in most gear boxes. My bat wing mower came with corn head grease in it from the factory.

 

[woodman55]

I just googled "corn head grease", sounds like pretty good stuff. I will keep it in mind if a gear box seal starts to fail.

 

[SDT]

I bought an old (probably VERY old) 5’ sidewinder cutter. It’s rough, but it works. Going through it all now so I know what condition it’s in. Today was gearbox day. I know the seals were shot so I expected grease on the box. I was not disappointed. Based on the consistency I think it’s #1 or possibly #2 grease. Question for the collective, should I clean this out and replace with corn head grease (I have enough to fill the box)? Or just button it up and send it? View attachment 99303 View attachment 99304

If mine, I would clean, reseal, etc., and fill with CNH Pourable High EP grease.

 

[Norman]

I appreciate the comments. It confirms the direction I was going in. I might not be able to replace seals unless I take careful measurements with a caliper. There are no markings on the seals or on the box. But, given the age, condition, and price I paid I think cornhead grease or equivalent is my solution.