Re: grease zirks

Posted by Tim Cole On 2013/11/30 23:32:20

Dear BDC:

I haven't seen anything in tool catalogues about non-American zerk fitting couplers. Snap-On says universal.

The fittings themselves may be clogged or (If you are using a hand grease gun) the grease may not have sufficient pumpability for the gun. You can buy new fittings at the auto store or from McMaster-Carr. Also, those couplers can wear out and cause problems. Make sure you wipe/brush off the fittings because trying to grease a dirty fitting will cause a dirt clog.

If you are using a hand gun then a good grease to use on the Packard (and other non-ball joint applications) is Pennzoil 707. The suspension should be unloaded (wheels off the ground and jacked under the frame) otherwise you can blow the caps off the lower control arms and king pins. Pennzoil 707 is not an extended service interval grease so will need to be greased once a year or 2000 miles. But it is a dream to use in hand grease guns.

Another choice is Chevron Delo Chassis grease #1, but you may not be able to find it.

I used to get bitched at for how long I spent on some grease jobs, but if the fittings don't take grease they have to be repaired. On the Caddy 8/12/16 there are upwards of 60 fittings. I guess they are happier now with worn out suspensions.

Don't forget too that if the center link fitting isn't visible the wheels need to cranked over to gain access to the fitting.