Monaco Cayman 2005 Owner's Manual page 373

Lubricant Classification:
Lubricants are manufactured in many forms for a variety of applications. There are many different oil
and grease consistencies each with a designed application. To properly select a particular type of lubri-
cant for a specific application, the component must be evaluated. Component stress loads, ambient
temperature, working temperature and environmental exposure are just a few of the variables to consider.
Select the proper lubricant for its intended application. As an example: selecting high viscosity grease to
lubricate a lock cylinder results in sluggish lock cylinder operation especially in a cool environment.
Conversely, using graphite to lubricate a component that is under extreme temperature and load will
result in component failure.
Grease ratings and their base compounds are especially important when selecting a lubricant type
for an intended application. Some grease compounds are manufactured for multi-use application. These
are acceptable if the grease rating is in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended lubricant type
and rating.
Lubricants:
Many chassis components require lubrication. The types of lubricants used will vary with the applica-
tion of the component. A component may fail prematurely due to lack of lubrication or from using an
incorrect lubricant type. The component manufacturer usually recommends a particular type of lubricant
with a minimum approval rating. Most lubricants are tested under strict guidelines set by the ASTM
(American Society for Testing and Materials). The NLGI (National Lubricating Grease Institute) helps
disperse information to the grease production industry. Grease containers usually have an approval rating
by the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers), Mil Spec (Military Specification), API (American
Petroleum Institute) or by other recognized and accepted organizations. The correct lubricant type with an
approved specific rating must be used whenever applying, changing or adding any lubricant. When
purchasing lubricants for a specific application be sure the label affirms the type of lubricant required
with the tested rating by the term "meets or exceeds" in accordance with the manufacturer specifica-
tions.
Lubricating greases are made from different base compounds giving the grease different lubricating
consistencies, properties and maximum operating temperatures. Most containers list the base compound
and maximum operating temperature usually listed as melting point or drip point. Lubricating compo-
nents, such as brake component for example, require a high temperature special base compound grease.
Lubricating this type of component with other than specified grease type will result in inadequate lubri-
cating qualities resulting in component malfunction or failure.
INSPECTION:
When performing any scheduled maintenance, inspect the area around where you
are working. For example, changing the oil, look at the rear differential. Inspect
for visual signs of fluid leaks.
Cayman 2005
Chassis Information --- Section 10
373