RCK60-BX22 Spindle Grease

[BobBrennan]

Last summer I replaced the set of bearings and seals on one of the outer spindles of my mowing deck. I used high temperature grease to pack it. This is the same grease I use on all of my implements. Before the new mowing season, I am about to replace the bearings on the 2 remaining spindles.

I noticed that by turning the blade by hand (with the belt removed) the replaced bearings turn but seem sticky. It is as if the grease is thick and viscous enough to resist the motion. The other outer spindle with the old seals and bearings turns freely. Far less resistance.

There is no grinding sound or feel when turning the replaced spindle. There is a very slight crunch to the one yet to be replaced.

It was cold enough to snow today and the deck has not been on the tractor since October. Still weird that the old one spins freely and the new one doesn't. I am positive of which bearings I changed and which still need to be done.

Looking for a sanity check.

 

[Henro]

If you ever buy a used grinder, if it spins forever when powered down this is a sign of worn bearings, from everything I have read over the years.

So I would guess your free wheeling bearings are worn and the one that is not as free is good. Especially since you replaced those bearings and it has been cold so the grease is stiffer than it would be if warmer.

 

[BobBrennan]

Interesting thought on the grinder spinning. Never knew that. That does help confirm what I see. I am however surprised by the difference in the amount of force it takes to spin the old versus new spindle. The PTO earns its keep. Guess I will change the other 2 as planned.

Thanks for the feedback.

 

[lugbolt]

ideally you would use a bearing grease. There are different greases for ball bearings. Mutli-purpose grease works ok but they won't last forever. I used to use Mercury Marine bearing grease and never ever once had a deck bearing failure. It sucks to have to keep 2 or 3 grease guns with different lubricants in them but that's how picky I am with stuff.