Why Bearing Lubrication Is Important in The Agriculture Industry

Common Causes of Bearing Failure

Skipping lubrication during maintenance can lead to early bearing failure, especially in harsh farming environments. Even with good intentions, bearing lubrication can fail. Here are some reasons why lubrication fails:

• Not lubricating often enough: Skipping scheduled farm equipment service can cause damage.
• Using too little grease: If not enough grease is added, old or dirty grease stays inside.
• Dirt and moisture getting in: These can damage the bearing’s inner parts.
• Grease not strong enough: High heat or tough conditions can break down the grease.
• Using the wrong grease: Mixing different types of grease can cause failure. Only use grease with the same base thickener.

Most bearings use NLGI Grade #2 lithium complex grease, which works up to 225°F (107°C).

Use the CLEAR Method for Better Bearing Lubrication

All bearing manufacturers provide standard lubrication charts. These recommendations are good starting points, depending on operating environments. If equipment operates in a contaminated or high-temperature environment, the chart data changes. If there are contaminants or high temperatures, lubricate bearings more often.

The CLEAR method is a smart way to include bearing lubrication in your regular farm equipment service routine:

• Clean the area around the seal before adding grease.
• Lubricate until you see grease come out of the seal.
• Examine the grease that comes out. Is it clean or dirty?
• Adjust how often you lubricate based on the grease condition.
• Repeat until the grease looks clean.

This method helps you find the right schedule and amount of grease. In farming, conditions are tough. Sometimes, bearings need grease every day—or even twice a day—especially in dry weather.

More Bearing Lubrication Tips

Consistent lubrication frequency extends bearing service life. Here are more tips to consider:

• Lubricate and rotate bearings on equipment that isn’t used often.
• Store bearings properly to keep out moisture and dirt.
• Clean grease guns and fittings before use to avoid adding contaminants.

These tips are part of good farm equipment maintenance practices. They can help prevent bearing failure and extend equipment life.

Keep Your Farm Equipment Running

Farming is hard on equipment. Good bearing lubrication is one of the best ways to avoid bearing failure. By following these tips and using the CLEAR method, you can extend bearing life, reduce downtime, and improve overall farm equipment maintenance. 

If you have questions, contact our experts below. For videos and other demos, visit our YouTube channel.