Engines can’t function without lubrication, and the need for lubricant starts during the building process.
But not just any lubricant will do. You need the right type of lube, one that can withstand high pressure and will combine well with engine oil. Engine assembly lubricants are designed with the engine-building process in mind. They’re stickier than engine oil, compatible with oil additives and will stay put until oil flow gets established. They reduce friction until the oil pressure can take over.
Assembly lube can help extend the lifespan of an engine. Learn more about its benefits and how to use it.
What Does Assembly Lube Do?
The role of assembly lube looks simple — it protects an engine’s parts from wear and tear during the modification or build process. The lube needs to stay in place to do its job effectively, which is why a lubricant that’s tacky and clingy is a good thing.
When used during an engine modification or build, assembly lubricant performs several functions:
- Pinch hits for motor oil: Assembly lube should dissolve easily in motor oil, helping to encourage a good flow of oil. It also offers an extra bit of lubrication when an engine is completely new or freshly rebuilt. New engines don’t have a fully pressurized oil system, which means the oil doesn’t flow to all engine areas right away. Assembly lube pinch hits during this time, providing the needed lubrication until the oil is fully pressurized.
- Keeps parts clean: Assembly lube can help reduce damage to engine parts caused by contamination by keeping those parts clean. Particles are less likely to get stuck between parts, reducing the risk of engine failure or damage.
- Lubricates and reduces friction: Assembly lube gets between metal parts, reducing direct contact and excessive wear and tear during the building process. It also provides lubrication, so the engine parts can move smoothly.
- Prevents corrosion: The layer of protection that assembly lube provides helps protect metal parts from exposure to the environment. It can reduce oxidation and corrosion, ensuring your engine functions as it should for longer.
- Improves performance: You can get your new engine up and running in less time thanks to assembly lube. The lubricant helps break in a new engine more efficiently.
What Are the Benefits?
Any time you build or rebuild an engine, you need assembly lube. The lubricant’s benefits include:
- Tackiness: When it comes to assembly lube, tackiness or cling is a good thing. You want a lube that will stick to any surface it’s applied to for the best protection. Along with being tacky, assembly lube blends well with break-in oil.
- Ongoing protection: Assembly lube should have a high zinc content for maximum corrosion protection and startup wear protection. Whether your projects are ongoing or put in storage, you can feel confident they’re protected from damage, wear and rust.
- Flexibility: Assembly lube works in various applications and on multiple engine parts. You can use it when building a diesel or gasoline engine or with any camshaft type. It’s appropriate for use on bearings, camshafts, main bolts, connecting rod bolts and valvetrain components.
How to Apply Assembly Lube
How you apply assembly lubricant depends on the type of engine you’re working with and the components you’re building. Your application options typically include to dab the lubricant onto the components and spread a thin layer on all surfaces using a brush or your gloved fingers.
It’s important that you clean the components before you add the lube. Assembly lubricant is meant to be clingy, but it’ll cling even better to a clean surface. To ensure a thorough cleaning, use a solvent that thoroughly removes grease, oil and other contaminants that could interfere with the lube. Dry the surfaces after cleaning, then add the lubricant.
How Much to Use
Think Goldilocks when deciding how much lube to apply — you want just the right amount, not too little or too much. Too much lubricant can lead to clogs and actually cause more friction, reducing engine performance. Too little lubricant won’t provide adequate protection.
The amount you need to use depends on the components and engines. If you’re unsure, the instructions should tell you the right amount to apply.
What Engine Parts Need It?
Any moving parts in an engine can benefit from assembly lube. Apply the lubricant to fasteners, such as head studs, main studs, connecting rod bolts and head bolts, as well as bearings, rocker arms and camshafts to reduce friction and protect the parts during start-up.
Source Your Assembly Lube From Hot Shot’s Secret
Hot Shot’s Secret Adrenaline® Assembly Lube offers tacky parts adherence and extreme dry-start protection. It’s engineered to deliver optimal performance during start-up and assembly and combines fully with any commercially available oils. Place your order today, or contact us to learn more about our assembly lubricant and other products.