Plastic Lube or Grease

[furpo]

I have a rototiller transmission apart. And was sealed for life and should never need grease.
Needless to say after 30 years the needle bearings are shot.
It has both plastic bushing and standard needle bearings in it.
I’ve got new shaft and needle bearings.

What type of grease would you recommend for a tiller transmission?

 

[Maxx]

SAE 140 or SAE 85W-140 gear oil with an API rating of GL-4 most likely.
Or did it actually have grease?

 

[furpo]

It had about a cup of what looked like snot!
But no way that would get to needle bearings about 7” above.
I think about 2-3 quarts of gear lube would do a better job.
Thanks

 

[furpo]

Finding info on this is tough. Went as far as calling manufactures and one said GL-4 is OK for plastic and one said not.
The GL-4 is going into it. Has to be better than what it had.
Maxx Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

 

[Tony Wells]

Most any ATF is plastic compatible, and easy to circulate. Auto Transmissions have used quite a few plastic parts, including some thrust bearings, for years. If the EP needs aren't there, I'd consider that.

 

[Rbeckett]

Actually there is a lube that is most notably used in Snapper rider mower transmissions that is sort of a thin gel that is perfect for tillers and low speed gear boxes. It's what I would use. It's called "OO grease" (double ought) and available at any snapper dealer.

Bob