Nipples are provided for the lubrication of the suspension pivots, ball joints and outer bush
of each wish-bone shackle (see Fig. 14). Do not lubricate the inner bushes of the shackles
as they contain rubber. This also applies to the rubber mounting washers between which
the coil springs are fitted.
It is an advantage when greasing the suspension swivels to jack up the front of the car so
that the suspension hangs free. This will allow grease to cover the thrust faces as the
grease gun is applied.
To maintain the best riding qualities of the independent suspension it is essential that it is
properly and regularly lubricated. The distance of 1,000 miles (1,600 km.) between
lubrication of the suspension pivots should be regarded as a maximum.
The front and rear hubs require a small but regular supply of grease as specified on page
79 or 80, every 5,000 miles (8,000 km.). It is essential that the correct type of grease be
used, this has a high melting point. Five strokes of the "hand" grease gun will normally be
sufficient as it is inadvisable to overload the hubs with grease. The grease should not be
used from a machine unless it is certain that the machine reservoir contains the
correct grade of grease.
Front Hubs
To grease the hub bearings, remove
the nave plate, when the grease
nipple will be exposed (see Fig. 13).
GENERAL UPKEEP—Lubrication
FRONT SUSPENSION
WHEEL HUBS
28