When Do You Use Lubricants?

Lubricants are best used to minimize friction between moving parts of a machine and to reduce the passive resistance of fixed parts of metal. All types of lubricants are manufactured from crude oil after a certain refining phase. They come in different types; solid lubricants like Teflon and graphite, semi-solid lubricants like silicon gels, and fluid or liquid like oils.

All lubricants vary depending on their characteristics and performance. However, all of them have one common component, base oil. Lubricants mostly contain approximately 80% base oil of mineral or synthetic origin.

Lubricants are mainly used in high temperature and high-speed applications that don’t require heat transfer on bearing surfaces. They help in cooling the circulation units. Also, most lubricants are used in fluid film bearings that aren’t sticky. Using grease in these parts could attract dirt and unappealing accumulation of the grease. Excess use of grease in these areas could also lead to blockage. Thus lubricants are preferred over grease.

Fluid film bearings, however, tend to reuse oil over an extended period. These can cause contamination from humidity. To prevent the bearings from contamination, you should use a lubricant that;

• Resist foaming
• Easily separates from water
• Protects against corrosion and rust
• Demonstrates chemical stability to resist deposit formation and oxidation

When do you use grease?

Grease is generally designed to be applied on stems, threads, seat posts, cables, cantilever bosses and bearing surfaces. It can also be used where there is a barrier between two parts. Generally, grease is preferred to lubricants in bearing application where heat is relatively low and operate at moderate speeds. Grease is preferred in these areas specifically because of its good adhesion to the lubricated surfaces. They are also insoluble in water hence they resist being soaked making it last longer. In general, grease is preferred as it helps in energy loses and reduction of mechanical fatigue as a result of friction.

Aside from its lubrication purposes, grease acts as a barrier against external elements like heat, solvents, water, and dust. It is important to note that oil and grease are not interchangeable. You only use grease when it is inconvenient or impractical to use oil. Choosing either grease or oil depends on operating conditions and machinery design. You may use grease on:

• Wind turbines, where using oil could wear off the turbines
• Conveyors, where shock loading usually occur
• Applications where cohesion and adhesion are essential.
• Machines that run recurrently or are in store for a longer period. Grease doesn’t come off easily and helps protect machine parts from rust, and dust.
• Machines cannot be easily accessed for regular lubrication. A good quality grease can lubricate inaccessible or isolated parts for long periods without the need to replenish frequently.
• Machines operating under extreme conditions like slow speed under heavy load, shock loads and extreme cold or high temperatures.
• Damaged machine parts. Grease fills up holes enlarged by wear and can extend the life of damaged parts.

Conclusion

Lubricants and grease are essential in virtually every aspect of machinery. They help in lubricating moving parts hence making them last longer while also protecting them from rust and dust. Their uses vary depending on the areas to be lubricated. Lubricants, as seen, are mainly used to lubricate faster moving parts like pedals of a bicycle and machine parts using bearings. They could also be used in areas that are difficult to use grease like door hinges.

Grease, on the other hand, is used primarily on slower moving parts like conveyor belts or machines that are not occasionally used since it lasts longer. Grease is also preferred on these parts because it is insoluble in water hence helps protect the parts from dust and unwanted properties.

The post When To Use Grease Vs. A Lubricant appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

It drives a commendable range of 15-degree collated nails of ¾- 1-3/4 inches. This is a decent range and should be adaptable enough for most roofing tasks.

When using a roofing nailer, it is important that exhaust air, debris, and oils don’t spill on your nailing area. To ensure this doesn’t happen, Senco Roof 455XP Nailer has a 360-degree adjustable exhaust. The depth-of-drive can be conveniently adjusted and placed below the trigger mechanism. The trigger is easy to control and has a long travel distance.

Senco made it more comfortable to use by fitting a soft-rubber material on its handle. This prevents slipping during use.

This model comes with a durable case that makes it easier for one to carry it to your worksite.

Let’s discuss more features that make this roofing nailer from Senco stand out;

Features of Senco Roof 455XP Nailer

The Senco Roof 455XP Nailer features a metal wear plate in its nail canister to reduce canister wear and improve nail feed.

The shingle guide is also removable and adjustable for adaptability, and tool-free depth of drive makes tuning drive depth easier.

Its trigger doesn’t have a one-fire option, and thus it is best to use it as a contact trigger, which makes it ideal for medium to large tasks.

The Senco Roof 455XP Nailer comes standard with a bump/contact fire trigger as this is the most preferred style for most professionals. There is also an optional single (sequential) fire trigger that you can order and install. This will help you choose what actuation to use.

This roofing nailer has a bi-metal driver blade that improves its durability by reducing wear. It also has an innovative firing valve that reduces air consumption without affecting its speed and power. This nail gun accepts ¾-1- ¾ nails.

It comes with wrenches, ¼ inch swivel connector, and tool oil. You are also supplied with a case to help carry your tool easily and safely.

Bottom Line

Senco Roof 455XP Nailer offers performance and power. This model can easily drive 11-gauge nails with a length of ¾ inch to 1 ¾ inch. One good thing about this nailer is that you can adjust its exhaust to keep debris and fumes away from your working area when nailing. Adjusting the depth is also easy with this tool, and its canister can hold hundreds of nails with ease.

This model is lightweight and thus ideal for any roofing task. Its paint is also extremely durable as it never chips off. This roofing nailer also comes with a case, oil, connector, and wrenches to help you quickly get started.

If you are a professional or DIY enthusiast and require a quality, dependable roofing nailer that can last for a long time, the Senco Roof 455XP is the right roofing nailer for the job. It has ample power for shingles/sheathing and general roofing tasks.  With the right skills and adjustment, this tool can be used for sensitive tasks such as installing overhangs.

The post Senco Roof Pro 455XP Nailer Review appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

Step 1: Check the Conditions of the Ball Joints

Before you grease ball joints, check whether the ball joint has any leaks. If it has, then repair it or replace it when necessary to avoid contaminants from blocking the dust boot of the ball joint. If the ball joint has zerk, it becomes quite easy. Clean the zerk for grease to enter. After you have adequately cleaned the ball joint, attach the grease gun to the zerk. If it doesn’t connect, replace it with a new one. It will help you get rid of clogged problems in the ball joint.

Step 2: Connect the Grease Machine To The Fitting

Attach the grease gun to the zerk fitting. Ensure that the gun fits the zerk as squarely as possible. Push down slowly until you hear the snap sound. Snap sound alerts you that the adapter has grabbed the zerk correctly. If your grease gun has an adjustable coupler, you can loosen the clamp for it to fit comfortably. But remember to tighten it up before pumping grease. If the gun’s nozzle hasn’t fit squarely to the zerk, grease might ooze out when pumping.

Step 3: Start Pumping Grease In

Once you are sure that the gun has fit appropriately to the zerk, start pumping slowly. Do this while watching the dust boot till it begins to swell. Don’t continue greasing after the dust boot swells. If you apply too much pressure after it is full, you may alter the seal that holds the grease in the ball joint. If you do that, then you may be forced to replace it. Some ball joints have a grease relief valve that allows old grease to exit the ball joint without altering the seal. If you have these ball joints, it is better to pump until the old grease oozes out of the valve.

Step 4: Separate the Fitting from the Coupler

Slightly tilt the coupler and pull it out slowly. It should come out easily. If you tilt it too much, you might break the zerk and can cost you more to replace it. An adjustable coupler is recommended as it comes out easily. You only need to adjust it till it loosens. It also makes it easy to differentiate the zerk from the grease gun, so breaking the zerk is almost impossible.

Step 5: Clean the Zerk

Wipe out any excess grease from the dust boot and the zerk. You can then check the joints for leakage by trying a few minutes’ drives. If you don’t encounter any problem, then you have done it right. But if you do, then there are a few concerns you have to worry about. You can pump in more grease to the joints. Doing so will help you eliminate the sound problems of your vehicle. If the problem persists, then it would be critical to change the ball joint with a part that comes with a zerk fitting. The zerk fitting makes it easy and simple to fix the grease gun to the zerk and ensures you pump in the right amount of grease.

Conclusion

Adding grease to ball joints is a crucial way of eliminating unwanted noise and other inconveniences due to friction. For a successful greasing, ensure that you use a hand-triggered grease gun. A hand triggered grease gun keeps you in control of how much grease you want to squeeze into the ball joints. If there is any resistance from the ball joints, you can feel it and can stop pumping more grease. Also, not all types of grease can be used on ball joints. The recommended type of grease for use is marine grease or heavy-duty lithium synthetic grease. They last longer and serve you better, and most brands repel water actively. Once you follow the above steps, you will realize how easy it is to properly grease seal joints.

The post How to Properly Grease a Sealed Ball Joint appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

Source: legovaughan under CC 2.0

Now, this is where u-joints come in handy. U-joints are usually located at both ends of the driveshaft and allow it to maintain a proper balance while traveling up and down with suspension movement. Below are some of the steps to help you lubricate the u-joints to make sure it works properly.

Step 1: Lift Up Your Vehicle

Since u-joints are located at the bottom of your car, you will need to lift it up. To do this, you need wheel chocks, jack stands, and a floor jack. Ensure you are using jack stands and a floor jack with a suitable weight capacity to lift your vehicle. If you are not sure of the weight of your vehicle, check the VIN label usually located on the door jamb or inside the driver’s door. Place the wheel chocks, one in front and one behind the front wheel. Put the floor jack under the center of the differential/axle. When the jack stand is correctly stationed, jack up the vehicle slowly till the tire is raised past the ground. Place your vehicle on top of the jack stands.

Step 2: Access the Rear Axle

Access the rear axle by using a cardboard/wood or a creeper. Then locate the grease fitting joint on the rear u-joint. The rear u-joint is located where the rear axle meets the driveshaft. A grease fitting joint is found in the center of the u-joint. You can use your hand to rotate the driveshaft slightly to access the grease fitting joint.

Step 3: Clean the U-Joint and Use Appropriate Grease

Before applying grease to the u-joint, ensure you have thoroughly cleaned the grease fitting and the surrounding area to make sure you have gotten rid of contaminants. Also, ensure that you are using the correct type of grease. Not all types of grease work well on U-joints. You will need to look for a high-quality lithium based grease with corrosion and rust protection, and water tolerant. Lithium based grease is highly cohesive and highly adhesive it provides high grease tenacity, extended lubrication periods and reduced leakage. This reduces maintenance intervals and the requirement for your u-joint.

Step 4: Grease the U-Joint

Grease the u-joint by attaching the grease gun to the grease fitting joint. Squeeze in grease several times until you see clean grease come out of the u-joint or until a small amount of grease come out. When finished, wipe out excess grease from the joint.

Source: Van helsing under CC 3.0

Step 5: Access the Front U-Joint

Most cars do not have front driveshaft u-joints. But if yours is a four-wheeled drive vehicle, then it is likely that it has and needs to be lubricated as well. Front u-joints are located where the transmission and the driveshaft connect. Roll yourself forward to the front u-joint using a creeper. The procedure to grease the front u-joints is similar the one above for rear u-joints, so repeat the above procedure. When you are done, raise the vehicle off the jack stands. Take out the jack stands from underneath the vehicle and gradually bring down the vehicle using the floor jack. Some four-wheeled vehicles also have u-joints below each front wheel. If yours is similar to this, then you need to grease both u-joints using the same procedure while the vehicle is on jack stands.

Conclusion

Lubricating the u-joint can have a significant impact on the operations of the driveshaft, especially on bumpy roads. The above steps ensure that you comfortably lubricate the u-joints of your vehicle with ease. If you do it right, then you will reduce the maintenance practices of your vehicle. The standard lubrication interval under normal conditions is after every 500 hours. Unfavorable conditions like water, dirt, and temperature might reduce the interval. With proper lubrication, you can easily prolong the life of your driveshaft and reduce failures due to improper lubrication.

The post How to Properly Grease a U-Joint appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

It is fitted with a tool-free trigger that allows for seamless switching between contact bump and sequential mode. In addition to this, this coil roofing nailer supports nails of different sizes (between ¾ inch and 1-3/4 inch). Its nail magazine has a capacity of 120 nails- 15 degree coiled nails at any given time.

This roofing nailer looks not only great but also provides unparalleled comfort during use, thanks to its molded grip that runs from the base of this tool to its handle. Besides this, the textured hand design of its grip offers unmatched resistance so you can have optimal comfort when using it.

Adding to this, the DEWALT DWFP12658 Roofing Nailer is fitted with an air inlet NPT plug that has a connect coupler. This means that you will enjoy an unrestricted flow of air once it is connected to an air source.

Another worthy feature to mention is the adjustable depth of drive mechanism of this roofing nailer. This is a handy feature, especially when you are working with other roofers and sharing one compressor. With this feature, you can adjust the depth of drive on individual nailers with a flick of a switch.

Size and shape of the trigger are two of the design elements often overlooked by most roofing nailer manufacturers, but DEWALT outweighed its competitors in these two aspects. It is outfitted with a curved and comfortable trigger which is smooth, big, and wide enough to accommodate two fingers.

In terms of DEWALT DWFP12658 Roofing Nailer’s drivers, they are asymmetrical which doesn’t cause its head to curl up and nail for purposes of cutting into the shingle above. Its shingle gauge, which is placed at the bottom of the DEWALT DWFP12658, can be configured to counterpart the exposure of the shingle so as to figure the edge of the subsequent course up. This feature comes in handy when installing 3-tab shingles. It also offers great maneuverability, making it a complete tool for any roofing task.

Additional Benefits of DEWALT DWFP12658 Roofing Nailer

• It Is Lightweight and Well-Balanced

When roofing, the last thing you need is a heavy, non-portable tool as this will make it hard for roofing job to be done excellently. Besides, a heavy tool makes one feel fatigued quickly.

DEWALT DWFP12658 Roofing Nailer is designed to be lightweight thus ideal for multiple projects. It is also well-balanced thus comfortable in your hands. It also requires minimal maintenance and can work in extreme weather conditions.

• This Tool Is Affordable Compared to Renting a Nail Gun

Whether you intend to use it for a one-time job or you are a seasoned roofer, this nailer from DEWALT will be cheaper when compared to renting one. Besides, you will be working at your pace without hurrying to beat set deadlines. Again, if you are a DIY enthusiast, you will get other tasks where this gun is needed.

• It’s Safe and Speedy

Safety and speed are two main factors considered when purchasing a nail gun, and this roofing nailer was designed with these two factors in mind. First, it has skid-resistant pads that ensure your tool doesn’t slide or fall off accidentally when in use. Also, it features wear guards for extra protection. This, combined with solid construction, ensures that your nailer serves you for a long time with minimal maintenance and repairs.

Bottom Line

Overall, DEWALT DWFP12658 is a great roofing nailer thanks to its ease of use, great performance, and affordability. With a great price to performance ratio, this roofing nailer offers good value for money for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The post DEWALT DWFP12658 Roofing Nailer Review appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

Source: Bryn Pinzgauer under CC 2.0

There are two different methods of loading a grease gun depending on the type of your grease gun. Below are steps on how to load your grease gun from bulk grease containers and from cartridges.

For Bulk Grease Guns

• Step 1: Unfasten the Grease Gun Head from the Barrel

You first need to unfasten the grease gun head from the barrel first before anything else. Loosen the head to detach it from the cap. The grease gun head is the front part of the grease gun with an attached applicator tube and a handle. The piston rod handle (located at the end of the gun) should be pushed to the end to keep it from accidentally sucking grease from the gun.

• Step 2: Fill the Container

Slowly fill the barrel from a bulk grease container (mostly found in auto spares stores or local hardware). Hold the barrel down the bowl with the open end facing the container. Pull up the piston rod to pump in grease.

• Step 3: Remove the Barrel from the Container

After you have fully withdrawn the piston rod, you have to remove the barrel from the container. Lift the barrel while slowly facing the open end up to avoid grease from falling back into the container. Grease may adhere/cling to the barrel. Ensure to rotate the barrel several times to break it free. Also, ensure to wipe off excess grease with a rag or a piece of cloth.

• Step 4: Fasten the Barrel to the Head Again

Fasten the barrel to the head back and completely close it. Test the grease gun to ensure it works correctly. You can do this by pressing the grease gun handle and squeezing the trigger to check if grease comes out of the nipple.

For Cartridge Grease Guns

• Step 1: Take Out the Cartridge

Take out the cartridge by unfastening the cap. You do this by turning the cap of the container clockwise while turning the dispenser nozzle anticlockwise. If you find the cap or the screw too tight, use elbow grease.

• Step 2: Detach the Plunger Rod from the Barrel

First, ensure the plunger rod well fastened. There is a slot that helps you fix the plunger rod to keep it from moving. Above the nozzle of the grease gun, there is the plunger rod that forces grease out of the cartridge. Pull out the nozzle rod until you entirely withdraw it from the container. Sometimes it is hard to pull it up due to grease build up. Also, check your grease gun’s type or model. Some eject the cartridge automatically.

• Step 3: load the grease gun by putting in a new cartridge

You need first to clean the grease gun before inserting a new cartridge. You can do this with a clean rag or a piece of cloth. Unscrew the cartridge from one end where grease will flow out from. Insert the cartridge from the screwed end. Push it fully until it is completely sealed with the barrel’s end.

• Step 4: Fasten the Head and the Barrel

Reattach the barrel to the head by fastening it. Remove the piston carefully from its lock-in or retracted position to release it. Push it back to the barrel slowly while pumping the nozzle to test if grease is coming out.

Conclusion

Loading a grease as you have seen can be very simple. Even if you are a first timer in using grease guns, you will be a pro after a few tries. You, however, need to be familiar with the type of grease gun you are using before reloading. Just follow the simple methods explained above depending on the grease gun you have, and you are good to go.

The post Simple Steps to Load Your Grease Gun appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

Are all grease guns the same? The answer to that question is a big no. Just like any other tool, there are very good ones in the marketplace and some that are made very poorly. An inferior quality grease gun may not get a lubricating job done properly or will simply make lubricating a part more difficult to do. So when you are out there in the tool marketplace looking for a new grease gun, most of the time it’s better to spend a little more on a good model if you can fit it into your budget.

So how do you tell if a particular grease gun model is a superior product? Well, that’s why we have written this article. We will review for you several grease guns that we believe are extremely well-designed models. In addition to that, we will also point out some of the key characteristics of grease guns you should consider when you are shopping for one. By the time you are done reading this article, you should know exactly how to go about getting the best quality grease gun for your needs.

Best Grease Gun Comparison Table

Image	Description	Manufacturer	Power	Price
	GreaseTek Premium Pistol Grip Grease Gun with 18" Hose and Extension Pipe ** Editor's Choice - Best Grease Gun - Manual**	GeaseTek	Manual	Check Price
	DEWALT DCGG571B 20-volt MAX Lithium Ion Tool Only Grease Gun ** Best Battery Powered Grease Gun **	Dewalt	Battery	Check Price
	Lincoln 1162 Air Operated Grease Gun ** Best Air Powered Grease Gun **	Lincoln Electric	Air	Check Price
	Lumax LX-1152 Black Heavy Duty Deluxe Pistol Grease Gun with 18" Flex Hose	Lumax	Manual	Check Price
	Drake Off Road Lincoln Lubrication 1134 Heavy Duty Pistol Grip Grease Gun with Whip Hose and Rigid Pipe	Drake	Manual	Check Price
	Plews 30-200 Standard Duty Grease Gun	Plews	Manual	Check Price
	Workforce Pistol Grip Grease Gun, 12 in. Flexible Extension - L1325	Legacy Manufacturing	Manual	Check Price
	Lincoln Lubrication 1133 2-Way Loading Lever-Action Grease Gun with 18" Whip	Lincoln Electric	Manual	Check Price
	Performance Tool W54205 Mini Grease Gun Kit with Grease	Performance Tool	Manual	Check Price
	Milwaukee 2446-21XC M12 12-Volt Cordless Grease Gun	Milwaukee	Battery	Check Price

1. GreaseTek Premium Pistol Grip Grease Gun with 18″ Hose and Extension Pipe

** Editor’s Choice – Best Grease Gun – Manual **

This is a really versatile grease gun product that the reputable tool manufacturer GreaseTek has designed. It has a very advanced and simple to use pistol type grip. You don’t have to load it often either as it holds 14 oz. lubricating grease canisters. It even has a bulk filling valve which is convenient if you are a professional mechanic that goes through a lot of grease.

Another nice feature of this grease gun has its advanced plunger design. Everything you do with it from adding pressure with the plunger to dispensing the grease each time the trigger is squeezed works very smoothly.

One of the nice bonuses you get with this model grease gun is its 18” extension hose. It lets you to more easily lubricate hard to get to areas. This grease gun even includes an added extension pipe too to even further increase its already lengthy reach. Its textured barrel makes it easy to hold onto while using it even if there is a slight amount of grease on it.

Pros:

• Included 18” extension hose
• Superior plunger design
• Dual-position grease loader
• 14 oz. capacity/1 oz. per grip stroke
• Bleeder valve/Bulk filling valve
• Convenient pistol grip style

Cons:

• A little hard to release from Zerk grease fittings
• Piston loses pressure if not tightened up well

Check Price and Reviews

2. DEWALT DCGG571B 20-volt MAX Lithium Ion Tool Only Grease Gun

** Best Battery Powered Grease Gun **

This is a grease gun for those that are very serious about having a quality grease gun that practically does the job on its own. It’s a very unique design from DEWALT that is part of their very popular 20-volt Lithium-Ion cordless battery tool line. That’s a powerful enough battery that will allow you to fill grease fittings all day without needing to be recharged.

The DEWALT DCGG571B comes with an extra-long hose which makes even hard to reach industrial lubrication jobs very easy. There are also built-in LED lights to help you work when you are trying to lubricate a part in a poorly lit area.

One of the nicer features on this grease gun is it has a variable speed trigger. That allows you to more precisely and quickly fill grease fittings and do other lubricating jobs too. It also is one of the rare grease gun models that have a pump filter screen. The design of this grease gun also allows it to support itself on the ground when placed in a vertical position.

Pros:

• Powered by a 20-volt cordless battery
• Can be set to dispense up to 5 oz. of grease at a time
• Extra-long 42” flexible hose
• 10,000 PSI motor
• Pump filter screen
• Variable speed trigger

Cons:

• Battery is not included in the package

A little to the heavy side to hold at 10 pounds

Check Price and Reviews

3. Lincoln 1162 Air Operated Grease Gun

** Best Air Powered Grease Gun **

Here is a grease gun that uses compressed air to power it. It’s very well-designed and built to last also. It has an advanced pump design that all but eliminates any priming issues. It’s a check valve assisted grease gun that always offers superior flow performance when using it.

This grease gun can handle up to 6000 PSI grease applications. It requires between 40 – 160 PSI of compressed air to make it work. The setup even includes an extra-long 30 flexible filling hose that will fit a variety of different grease fittings.

This is a great grease gun for mechanics shops that already use a lot of different power tools. It sets up in under a minute and is also very simple to operate. Its variable speed trigger setup makes it an ideal grease gun for a variety of different lubricating tasks.

The Lincoln 1162 grease gun comes backed up by a full one-year warranty from the manufacturer.

Pros:

• Variable speed trigger
• Compressed air operation
• 30”high-pressure hose
• 1-year warranty
• 6000 PSI max pressure
• Heavy duty

Cons:

• Slightly heavy at 4.5 pounds
• Needs an air compressor setup to power it

Check Price and Reviews

4. Lumax LX-1152 Black Heavy Duty Deluxe Pistol Grease Gun with 18″ Flex Hose

This grease gun works great for the affordable price you will pay for it. Lumax has done a great job with its efficient design. It has many features you would expect to find a grease gun model that’s much more expensive than this one.

You can grease many fittings easily thanks to its lightweight and pistol grip design. It even comes with a very flexible and easy to position 18” extension hose. This model grease gun works great in tight quarters. There is an included rod lock that will help keep you from accidentally dispensing grease too.

The Lumax LX-1152 is a tough grease gun too. Thanks to sturdy parts such as its cast metal head and heavy gauge steel barrel. The cast metal head also includes a convenient bleeder valve and an oil-resistant grip. There are 3 different ways you can choose to load this grease gun too; these include cartridge, grease pump, and suction loading.

Pros:

• Included 18” extension hose
• Cast metal head
• Convenient 3-way loading
• Rod lock
• Bleeder valve/Bulk filling valve
• Pistol grip design

Cons:

• Difficult to release from Zerk fittings

Will not accept 3 oz. grease cartridges

Check Price and Reviews

5. Drake Off Road Lincoln Lubrication 1134 Heavy Duty Pistol Grip Grease Gun with Whip Hose and Rigid Pipe

Drake Off Road has come up with a simple but very easy to work grease gun with this model. This reputable lubricating tool manufacturer proves with this model grease gun that you don’t have to add a lot of bells and whistles to a grease gun design in order to have it work effectively and efficiently.

This grease gun is lightweight and not overly long. At 16 inches and length and 2.8 pounds, it’s very easy to use in somewhat tight spaces. It’s a grease gun model that is easy to prime after loading and features some very smooth working action too.

This grease gun model is also very solidly built grease gun. It’s one that can definitely be described as being a heavy duty model that can handle some serious PSI (7000 PSI) without leaking. The pump head on it is made out of durable cast metal and the hardened plunger rod in its barrel is sturdier than on most grease guns you will find.

Pros:

• Built sturdy
• Durable cast metal pump head
• Positive prime and smooth pumping action
• Hardened plunger prevents grease bypass
• Lightweight 2.8 lbs.
• Pistol grip design

Cons:

• No bulk grease loading option

Loading and priming takes practice

Check Price and Reviews

6. Plews 30-200 Standard Duty Grease Gun

Here is one of the most affordable grease gun options on our list of the top models. It’s a level style grease gun that applies lubricant smoothly even when under extreme PSI levels (up to 6000 PSI). It may be a simple grease gun design wise but it sure will get most any lubricating job done for you at an affordable price.

The lever action on this grease gun is extremely smooth working and provides lubricant at a steady and even rate. You can also crank the grease up to some 6000 PSI without having to worry at all about it leaking out of the cylinder.

This is not a super-heavy-duty grease gun model. That means that professional grease gun users should highly consider that before purchasing it. It is, however, a great choice for those who only have to apply lubricants on an occasional basis.

Pros:

• Simple lever action
• Handles up to 6000 PSI
• Uses standard 14-ounce cartridges
• Under 15” in length
• Extremely lightweight at 2 lbs.
• Simple to operate

Cons:

• Only a 90-day warranty

No rubber extension hose included

Check Price and Reviews

7. Workforce Pistol Grip Grease Gun, 12 in. Flexible Extension – L1325

Here is an affordable grease gun that works exceptionally well for what you pay for it. It’s not loaded with bells and whistles but it’s perfect for most straightforward lubrication tasks like those found on automobiles.

It’s a smooth working pistol style grease gun. The Legacy Manufacturing Workforce Grease Gun is also mess free due to the fact it uses standard 14 oz. grease cartridges. It could not be simpler to operate and it even includes a 12” flexible hose that makes it a very versatile lubricating tool. Light and heavy duty lubrication users will appreciate how sturdy and easy working this model grease gun is.

The Workforce Pistol Grip Grease Gun weighs less than 2 pounds and is just over 15” long. This is one of the most compact medium duty grease guns you will find in the tool marketplace. This makes it a great grease gun for those who do a lot of lubricating jobs that involve working in tight spaces.

Pros:

• Pistol grip style grease gun
• 12” flexible extension
• Uses standard 14-ounce cartridges
• Just over 15” in length
• Weighs less than 2 lbs.
• Simple to operate

Cons:

• Tricky to prime after changes cartridges

Instruction manual needs improvement

Check Price and Reviews

8. Lincoln Lubrication 1133 2-Way Loading Lever-Action Grease Gun with 18″ Whip

Lincoln Lubrication calls this grease gun a lever action model but it’s more of a hybrid pistol-grip/lever action model. It works really smoothly thanks to its extra heavy duty pump head spring. This grease gun can be used for a variety of lubrication jobs thanks to its variable-pressure, variable-stroke design.

Professionals love this grease gun design because of its ability to be used with a single hand. That leaves another hand free for lining up the discharge hose or doing other tasks.

The Lincoln Lubrication 1133 is a durable grease gun that can handle extremely heavy use and big jobs that require some extra grease pressure to get it where it’s needed. It can handle up to 7500 PSI grease application jobs. It has a cast metal head and as an added bonus, it also has a jam-proof plunger mechanism that helps make using it even more hassle-free. It features disassembly free cleaning too.

Pros:

• Jam proof plunger mechanism
• Cast metal pump head
• Works at up to 7500 PSI
• Strong pump headspring
• Variable-pressure, variable-stroke design
• Ok for rugged, heavy-duty use

Cons:

• A little heavy at 3.5 pounds

No bulk grease loading capability

Check Price and Reviews

9. Performance Tool W54205 Mini Grease Gun Kit with Grease

If you are only an occasional grease gun user and like to keep things simple, this compact and lightweight mini grease gun from Performance Tool may be exactly what you are looking for. Not only is it easy to lubricate parts with it in tight spots but it works much better than you would expect for its size too.

The Performance Tool W54205 Mini Grease Gun is an easy to use pistol grip style lubrication tool. It’s only 12” long and weighs just over one pound. It can handle grease applications that require 3000 PSI or less. It’s very easy to switch out cartridges on it too thanks to its positive locking cylinder and built-in air bleeder valve.

This is a sturdy grease gun but only intended for light use. Great for doing such things as keeping a home reloading press well lubed or carrying it in your truck so you can keep your boat trailer bearings greased up properly on long trips.

Pros:

• Smooth pistol grip action
• Zinc cast metal pump head
• Compact and lightweight
• Up to 3000 PSI working pressure
• Air bleeder valve
• Positive locking for easy refilling

Cons:

• Uses small 3 oz. grease cartridges only
• No rubber extension hose

Check Price and Reviews

10. Milwaukee 2446-21XC M12 12-Volt Cordless Grease Gun

Here is yet another cordless grease gun on our list of the top grease gun models. It’s not quite as powerful as the DEWALT model cordless grease gun we reviewed earlier but it’s still a very easy to use and worthy cordless grease gun product. As a matter of fact, it even has one of the highest working PSI capabilities (up to 8000 PSI working pressure) of all of the grease guns on our best review list.

If you have many fittings to grease each day it can really take a toll on your wrist and forearms if you use a manual grease gun. Not so with this nice battery powered grease gun from Milwaukee. It makes the job of greasing multiple fittings nearly effortless.

The Milwaukee 2446-21XC M12 12-Volt Cordless Grease Gun also has the ability to dispense up to 7 standard size grease gun canisters on just one charge. Its included 30” flex hose makes greasing fittings in tight areas easy and the unit even has a built-in storage compartment for the hose.

The 5-year warranty that Milwaukee backs this product up with is a very nice bonus too.

Pros:

• One charge does 7 grease canisters
• Battery and charger included
• Balanced well – stands on its own
• Up to 8000 PSI working pressure
• 5-year warranty
• Built-in storage for its 30” flex hose

Cons:

• It takes a short amount of time to bleed the air after a cartridge change
• Slightly heavy at just over 7 pounds

Check Price and Reviews

Handy Grease Gun Buying Guide

We mentioned before that not all grease guns work well. In order to find a good model grease gun, these are some of the characteristics you should consider before you purchase a new one:

• Style

There are a few different styles of grease guns. Most any of them will do lubrication tasks on a vehicle and other equipment quite nicely. Which one you choose comes down to price, the amount you will use your grease gun and personal preference.

• Battery powered

There are not a lot of manufacturers that make battery powered grease guns but there are a few very nice models out there in the tool marketplace. The DEWALT DCGG571B in our countdown of the top grease gun models is a good example of one. Battery powered grease guns are a great option for those that like a powered grease gun that also has to be highly portable.

• Pistol grip

This is a hand activated type grease gun. They are very popular not only because of how well they work but also because they can usually be bought at a very reasonable price. There are also a wide variety of different pistol grip style grease guns available in the tool marketplace.

• Lever activated

Here is another simple to operate and economical type of grease gun. These style grease guns date back many years so there has been a lot of different improvements in them and they tend to work very well for the low price you pay for them. They may not have a lot of bells and whistles to them but they are a perfect grease gun for light professional mechanic use and for any occasional home grease gun user.

• Air operation

Here is a grease gun that uses compressed air to work. These are great for mechanic shops that already use a lot of other air tools also. They tend to be a little sturdier than some other types of air guns too. That’s because they have to be able to handle the increased air pressure that compressed air tools typically work with.

• Included flex hose

If you are a heavy duty grease gun user you will want an included flexible hose to come with the grease gun you purchase. This will make it much easier to grease fittings that are located in tight areas. So match up hose length with the types of lubrication jobs you will be using your grease gun for.

• Fitting adapters

When shopping for a new grease fun in person or online you will want to make sure it can be attached to the types of grease fittings that you use. For example: if your jobs involve filling many grease fittings that require a Zerk fitting adapter then you will definitely want to make sure the grease gun model you buy has this. Most manufacturers will list on the packaging or their website what grease fittings their respective grease gun models are compatible with.

• Filling options

Many big auto and mechanical shops like to save money on grease by purchasing it in bulk. This is a great idea but unfortunately not all grease gun models have bulk filling attachments built into them. So make sure you know the different ways your new grease gun can be loaded. The most commonly used methods for filling a grease gun are bulk filling and cartridges.

• Cartridge Size

If you have a grease gun that uses grease cartridges when using it you will have to make sure you know which size cartridges it takes. The most common size grease cartridge is one that’ just over 14 ounces but there are some grease guns in the tool marketplace that use cartridges that are as small as 3 ounces. So know what size cartridge your particular model grease gun uses so you can make sure it has enough grease to do the lubrication jobs you need to do with it.

• Construction

A majority of the time you will be using your new grease gun in a shop or other mechanic setup. You will also be using it around many metal parts that you may accidentally bang it against. That means you will be using your grease gun in a pretty tough working environment. Because of this, you will want a durable grease gun that has such things as a cast metal head, ruggedly constructed body and sturdy plunger mechanism. Take a few minutes to read how well any grease gun you are thinking about buying is built.

• Easy Loading/Bleeder valve

One of the biggest complaints from grease gun users is that it’s hard to load new grease and then bleed out the air. Look for a grease gun model where the manufacturer has taken measures to make sure these two steps are easy to do.

• Weight

If you lubricate many parts throughout the day that can be a pretty tiring experience. Because of this, you will not want to use a heavier model grease gun. So make sure the weight of any grease gun your purchase is in line with the volume of lubrication you will be doing with it each day.

• Size

You will want to know the exact dimensions of any grease gun that you purchase. This is especially true if you will be using your grease gun in many different tight spots. Most grease gun dimensions are listed right on the packaging or can be found on the manufacturer’s website.

• Warranty

A long warranty is a nice bonus to have with any product. So be aware of how long the warranty is on any grease gun model you purchase.

Even Occasional Grease Gun Users Should Keep One handy

There is no reason that every professional mechanic and part-time home mechanic should not own their own grease gun. They are such a handy tool to have around to help keep your vehicles and other equipment properly lubricated. Grease guns also come in a wide variety of styles and price ranges so everyone can buy one that nicely fits their individual needs. All of the grease guns we reviewed here would make a nice addition to any home or professional tool shop. If you don’t think any of those fit your needs then use the handy grease gun buying guide to help you find the perfect model grease gun for you.

The post Best Grease Gun – Top 10 Roundup – Reviews and Buying Guide appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

Max is a renowned brand all over the world, and they made the first roofing nailer in the US. This is the latest model from this manufacturer, and it is not short of features.

MAX CN445R3 Roofing Nailer is a lightweight tool yet very powerful. This tool features switch flexible depth control, rapid-fire trigger, shingles guide, trigger lockout, roofing round driver blade, magnetic nose, and much more.

Let’s discuss these features in details;

Features and Benefits of MAX CN445R3

• Tar Resistant Nose (Yet To Be Patented)

The nose of this tool is specially designed to resist tar. In fact, it can resist tar four times better than other conventional tools. This means you can use on roofing with tar without fear of damaging its magnetic nose.

• Trigger Lock

This feature locks the nailer from shooting when it’s not in use. The lock is as a result of the device being detached from the air source.

• It Has an End Cap Filter That Is Maintenance-Free (US Patent 5637125)

This nailer has an end cap filter that is easy to maintain, whose purpose is to catch sand and micro dirt. However, it allows air and oil into the device. By locking out dirt and sand, this filter helps keep the internal parts clean, and thus your tool can last longer.

• Comes With A Magnetic Nose

This helps hold the last nail in place, so it doesn’t fall off the device and cause damage to your roof.

• It Is Highly Durable

Max is known to make quality and durable tools, and that has been its tradition. CN445R3 Roofing Nailer is not different. It has been made purposely for roofing tasks and thus will last for a long time if you use it for its intended purpose.

• It Has A Dial Flexible Depth Control

It has a switch depth control that doesn’t need other tools for it to offer precise depth control.

• Weighs 9.73 Pounds

MAX CN445R3 Roofing Nailer is lightweight as compared to conventional nailers, which means you can use it for a long time without feeling fatigued. It also has a comfortable, non-slip grip for easy handling.

Bottom Line

Because of the attention and details they put into their products, Max certainly is one of the best power tool manufacturers. And this is probably the reason CN445R3 SuperRoofer Nailer is such a great product and the new kid on the block. Packing quite a lot of punch and kick in its compact, durable body, this tool is one of the best roofing nailers on the market.

There is a lot about this tool. For instance, it comes with adjustable depth control, magnetic nose to hold nails with ease, rapid-fire trigger, and much more. The shingle guide is another great feature, which comes in handy when you are nailing shingles on your roof. All these features make MAX CN445R3 SuperRoofer Nailer one of its kind.

The post MAX CN445R3 Super Roofing Nailer Review appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

Deciding on the best rivet to buy can be frustrating, especially when torn between a hand riveter or a powered rivet gun. You need to comprehend the basics of each type. Getting insights into their differences will help you make the right choice.

1. Source of riveting power

Source of power is a crucial consideration when it comes to riveting tools. When using a hand rivet, you need to apply force manually by using your hands to drive in the rivets. And what effort should you employ when using a hand riveter? Well, different types of hand riveters require different amounts of energy to drive in a rivet. If you are using a small hand riveter, then a single hand can sufficiently supply the effort needed. However, a large hand riveter may require that you use both hands to provide the much-needed energy.

On the other hand, powered rivet guns are powered by an external source of energy. Examples include; hydraulic riveters powered by compressed air, electric riveters powered by electricity and battery riveters powered by a battery.

2. Speed

A hand riveter may not be an ideal riveting tool when you need to accomplish a large task within a short period of time. For obvious reasons, a hand riveter can only accomplish tasks as fast as the person who is using it. If you are working slowly, it implies that you won’t be able to accomplish many tasks within a short period of time.

Powered rivet guns, on the other hand, are designed to accomplish tasks at a higher speed. This is because they are powered by external energy sources that don’t need effort from the operator. For instance, electric rivet guns are powered by electric energy which means they can accomplish much in a short time.

3. Cost and efficiency

Are you restricted by a tight budget yet you need to accomplish a riveting job? If so, then a hand riveter can be an ideal choice for you. Hand riveters are incredibly cheap. You will be able to find a hand riveter that can accomplish your task quite well and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to get one.

However, if you are looking for efficiency over cost, then a powered rivet gun can be a perfect choice for you. This is because the powered rivet guns can provide powerful blows with a high speed but they are costly compared to hand riveters. The cost of powered riveters varies based on speed, size, and the brand.

4. Operation

Hand riveters also called manual riveters are not so different from powered rivet guns in regards to their operation. The only difference is that the former requires lots of effort to achieve the desired result. A quick comparison of the parts between the two types of riveters yields very little contrast aside from the power button and electric cord found on the powered rivet guns. Using a hand riveter is quite easy even for a beginner. The instruction manual should be enough to get you started.

With all this information, I’m sure you can now tell what the upsides and downsides of the two riveters. Let’s now look at a few disadvantages common to both;

Common to both is once fixed, you cannot dismantle. Furthermore, a seal is required to avoid water and air to seep through. Both are also expensive and costly to repair once damaged. Building hydraulic riveter requires air compression while hand riveters are labor intensive.

Conclusion

Depending on your preference, you are now in the best position to choose the best riveter. Acquiring a powered gun will hasten your work while acquiring a hand riveter will save your cash though you will accomplish less. You now know which riveter to buy next, right?

The post Hand Riveter vs Powered Rivet Gun – In-Depth Comparison appeared first on ✔ The Rate Inc.

BOSTITCH RN46-1 is a quality, durable roofing nailer with versatile and dependable features. This coil-roofing nailer is versatile as it can accommodate nails of ¾ inches to 1-2/4 inches.

It packs a significant punch as it can deliver an impressive 410lbs of force with just 100psi of pressure. This makes it suitable for different air compressors, and therefore, you don’t have to own a powerful unit to use this model.

However, it is not among the fastest roofing nailers as it can only shoot 100 nails per minute- realistically, 1 nail per second. However, this is still commendable for most people. It allows for a swift change of its firing mode from bump to sequential modes with only a push of a button. When in sequential mode, this nailer should provide decent accuracy for greater results. Its carbide insert nose is durable and lasts a long time.

Besides, BOSTITCH RN46-1 has an adjustable depth control allowing one to adapt to material density and thickness on the fly quickly. With the lightweight magnesium construction of this nailer, you can use it for long hours without feeling tired. It only weighs 4.8lbs and is easy on the hand. When installing shingles, its one-step nail loading mechanism allows for faster reloading since it is a single piece. Generally, models with side-loaded coils are easier to use and more user-friendly, and gladly, this model has it.

So, what other features make this model stand out? Let’s unveil them.

Features of BOSTITCH RN46-1

• ¾ -1- ¾ Inch Coil and Lockout System

The BOSTITCH RN46-1 features a ¾ -1-3/4 inches coil and lockout mechanism that prevents firing when there are no nails in the magazine. The lockout mechanism makes this nailer safer while also preventing unwanted power usage.

• It Has an Adjustable Depth Control and Side-Loading Canister

This nailer features an adjustable depth control for more precision when working on more demanding jobs as well as a side-loading canister for simple and easy loading of nails.

The BOSTITCH RN46-1 also feature a full-round driver and has wear guards on both its body and magazine. You can choose from its 5 built-in levels using its depth dial, making it ideal for flush mount driving, countersinking, and shallow driving.

• Durable Construction

Unlike most nailer models on the market, BOSTITCH RN46-1 is both durable and lightweight. Its magnesium housing makes it not only durable but also light enough for extended use. With only 5.8 pounds, this roofing nailer is comfortable to use for extended periods.

This tool also has carbide tips for durability.

• It Is Comfortable and Safe

The RN46-1 comes with wear guards and built-in skin pads that prevent damage caused by working on abrasive surfaces. It also comes equipped with a molded grip that allows for firmer grip and unparalleled comfort, even in harsh weather condition.

Also, made by one of the top brands in this market, the BOSTITCH RN46-1 is one of the best nailers that can be used by both professional contractors and avid home renovators.

Its lightweight design makes it feel easy on the hands, and this puts it a step above other competing models that are designed for consumer usage.

• Powerful and Accurate

This powerful nailer can deliver 410lbs of force at up to 100 psi. It also allows one to drive nails more accurately and swiftly than most firing options, thanks to its contact trip firing. This nailer can drive in up to 100 nails per minute. The contact trip is suitable for working on larger areas, such as rooftops.

The tool-less gauge allows for price shingle spacing. Overall, this is one of the best roofing nailers for professionals who are looking to get their job done quickly and more accurately.

Bottom Line

The BOSTITCH RN46-1 roofing nailer offers great versatility and can accommodate nails of different sizes. It also has a lightweight and durable construction making it a dependable roofing nailer. If you are looking for a fast-roofing and powerful nailer, then, BOSTITCH RN46-1 is for you. It offers a good combination of power and speed.

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