I've heard mixed reviews as to wheter or not to lubricate ceramic bearings. I heard that they are like a self lubricating material and by oiling them it can destroy them. I've also been told that it's best to use a synthetic oil to oil the bearings and to use a high quality silcone grease if you use the ceramic diff balls. Anybody know what is best to do when using ceramic bearings and balls?

Thanks

RC

I did a quick search and found this....

http://www.bocabearings.com/main1.aspx?p=docs&id=23

Hope it is helpful.
Rick<><

I use ceramic diff balls and ceramic bearings in the diff.



I bought some ceramics and the package suggested cleaning them before I installed them and using a #2 oil to lube them.
The Turbine R/C Jet Pilots have ceramic bearings in their turbines. They use a fuel additive to lube the ceramic bearings in them. It's a product produced by Mobil Oil I think. I would have to do a bit of checking to be sure of the exact product. But it is a standard Jet-A additive I believe.
But, Keep in mind that the R/C Turbines "IDLE" at 50-70,000 RPM!!! And run upwards of 150,000+ RPM or more in flight!! And they only service the bearing after a certain number of hours of service. Way more extreme use than we will ever put on our ceramic's. Especially if you consider the exhaust gas temps in excess of 500 degrees Celcius.
I don't think you can hurt them with any type of lube we would normally use. Unless it had some type of acidic detergent in it. And even then I don't know if it would hurt them permanently.
I cleaned my ceramics fresh out of the package and used a drop of Zubby's Speed lube. And It was the best money spent, especially in the diff!
I used the Associated Stealth grease on the ceramic balls. I have had a beautifully smooth diff for about 12 runs and counting!

Scott

I found out how to make 'yer turbine/ceramic pan-car fly!:roll:

I have learned of (3) types. (1). Exxon/Mobil 2380 Jet Oil, (2). BP Turbine Oil 2380, & (3). Aeroshell 500.

You'll find that Aeroshell 500 goes for $8.29 each, or 24 quarts for $168.09. BP 2380 is also available for $9.09 each, or 24 quarts for $194.79.

I've got a really good connection at the airport and may be able to score a "lifetime" supply for our purposes. By Lifetime I mean a few ounces would last a long long time!

Scott

Those prices may be Canadian. So, you'll have to deduct the cost of a six pack of Labatt's.:D

Well it certainly appears that it is perfectly fine to lubricate ceramic bearings. Thanks for posting the link above.

Scott let me know if you get some of that stuff. I'd like to make er fly!


RC

RPM know whats the best!! :thumbsup:

Check this :

http://www.microlon.com/detail.asp?product_id=GJ1

RPM know whats the best!! :thumbsup:

Check this :

http://www.microlon.com/detail.asp?product_id=GJ1


May have to give this stuff a try. Wish there was someplace locally that had it though.

RC

I see this stuff once in a while. Last time was at Dunhams sporting good store in the hunting area.