CV Grease - Why 2 different types?

[RonR]

I'm not sure if this is common knowledge, but I've been looking into why Lotus supplied 2 different greases for the outer Birfield and inner Tripod CV joints.

Lotus-grease-sachets.jpg

To quote a GKN document:
"The tripod grease is optimised for tripod lubrication, has high scuffing resistance but does not contain any solid additives (which can reduce life by jamming the needle bearings)."

It appears that one of the offending solid additives is Molybdenum Disulphide.

Both the Lotus supplied CV greases have been obsolete since 2007 according to Deroure, but there are other sources of Tripod grease - e.g. GKN (Hardy Spicer's Parent company) make a 'motorsport' tripod grease as part number MS9U025. (Other greases are available).

I know what's going in my joints when I repack them.

[Giniw]

Thanks for sharing this and also your GKN tripod alternative!
Did you find a supplier for the GKN grease? It seems to be hard to find even on the internet?!

[Simon_P]

GKN was the world's biggest single buyer of grease.

The fixed joint grease was I think HTBJ (High Temperature Ball Joint) and I've forgotten the inner joint grease. High pressure point contact rolling friction vs patch contact sliding and rolling friction.

No it's not common knowledge, less interest still when you see the price, but that's why it will do 100k miles with not much wear.

[RonR]

I got mine from JJC race & rally but they're now showing none in stock.

Merlin Motorsport is reporting some in stock - Here.