Sunday, April 1, 2012

Basic Lubricants to have around the house


Let’s cover some basics of our most popular lubricant products at the hardware store.

WD-40

Ø  WD-40 has a new smart straw.  The straw is permanently attached to the can.  Flip it up for a tight stream.  Flip is down for regular spray action.

Ø  WD stands for water displacement.

Ø  WD-40 drives out moisture from spark plugs, hinges, ignition coils, drills and wiring.

Ø  WD-40 cleans gum off of dashboards and floor mats.  It cleans oil and tar from skin (wash skin thoroughly after use).  WD-40 cleans tea stains from countertops.  It removes decals from plastic.  It cleans hand tools.  It removes ink from jeans and leather.  WD-40 removes rust from plumbing fixtures.

Ø  It lubricates hinges, screws, chains, snow blower chutes and garden tools.

Ø  Cautions:  WD-40 is not a great contact cleaner.  It leaves a sticky residue that attracts dust.  Never use it in locks (clean a lock with isopropyl alcohol; allow it to dry and only use dry graphite in the lock).  WD-40 has oil in it and can stain some materials.



3 IN 1 OIL

Ø  3 in 1 oil is good basic lubricants for hinges, pulleys, chains and wheels. 

Ø  3 in 1 Oil is especially good for metal on metal.

Ø  It is primarily made up of light oil and petroleum oil. 

Ø  It can protect against rust. 

Ø  Cautions: It can stain some materials and can attract dirt and dust.



LIQUID WRENCH

Ø  Liquid Wrench is made up of penetrating solvents that do an excellent job of freeing up nuts and bolts that are difficult to remove.

Ø  Liquid Wrench is not good for long term lubrication or protection.



For anyone wanting to lubricate rubber, you need to use a plumber’s grease. A petroleum based lubricant will soften and swell rubber, shortening it’s life.

For more tips visit www.askthehardwareguy.com