Can I use Sta-Lube Moly-Graph which is a Molybdenum but with Graphite added to lube my swingarm and ball joint bearings? Couldnt find just plain Molybdenum Disulfide Grease at my Napa
Here is some reading material for you to help your decision.
http://www.tribology-abc.com/abc/solidlub.htm (http://www.tribology-abc.com/abc/solidlub.htm)
And here is an MSDS sheet which states that The Sta Lube contains MoS2 which should make your decision easier.
http://www.onboces.org/safety/msds/C/CRC%20Sta-Lube%20Moly-Graph%20Multi%20Purpose%20Grease%20April%202007.pdf (http://www.onboces.org/safety/msds/C/CRC%20Sta-Lube%20Moly-Graph%20Multi%20Purpose%20Grease%20April%202007.pdf)
Or in simpler terms, BMW shaft drives from the mid 80's were plagued with accelerated wear in the splines at the rear ends, resulting in the splines failing and the bikes not moving. After much research and trial and error it was determined that the grease that Honda used in their motorcycle rear drives had sufficient moly and whatnot to prevent the problem.
I tried Sta-lube with less than stellar results. The BMW situation was rather extreme, so that solution may not be necessary, butt that is what worked.
So I went ahead and used the Sta-Lub Moly-Graph and I guess we'll see...
If you oiled it as well, you shouldn't have any problem.
We used to use some funky graphite stuff for VW engines that Gene Berg swore by - I think it was Permatex, but not the stuff they sell now.
The main problem with assembly is dry start (as you know) and if you've oiled it and then haven't waited a long time before starting, it should be fine.
One trick I used to do is to overfill the crankcase by about 2 quarts and then turn the flywheel by hand. Enough oil gets picked up by the crank throws to prevent it from being dry. Drain off the correct amount before starting.
For what it is worth, I have had horrible results with white Lithium grease. I has a tendency to dry and actually crumble. I used it in some Triumph tapered steering head bearings and with low usuage and little time it was extremely difficult to even turn the handlebars. Came out in pieces.
This thread is about engine assembly lube. I wouldnt use lithium grease on any part of my bike.
The OP asked in regards to lubing swingarm pivot and heim joints.
Is the swing arm pivot and heim joints part of the engine assembly?
Quote from: Speeddog on August 25, 2013, 01:05:49 PM
The OP asked in regards to lubing swingarm pivot and heim joints.
??? Where did I get engine assembly?