The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Vaseline for Automotive Use

I have the 235 torn down for overhaul and a friend suggested using Vaseline on the pistons, ring compressor and in the bores to make assembly easier and to provide lubrication upon initial start-up. He said it would burn off instantly upon start-up and make the piston installation easier because it holds the rings in place. I would appreciate any thoughts on this as to why it would be a good or a bad idea. Also, has anyone done this before? Thanks!

Here's my experience...

I used vaseline LIBERALLY when I rebuilt my 235, the rebuilder recommended this step.

While putting the motor back in the car, I injured my back, and didn't work on the car for a few years. I didn't know it, but a leak from the hood allowed WATER to enter the crankcase (no oil) over a period of time.

Fortunatly, the motor is running perfect now, and I think the vaseline was what prevented the water from ruining the motor.

Whew! Being so close to San Francisco, I was kinda worried. Thought maybe we were starting to explore areas.....well how should I say....bizarre.

Using that stuff on engine parts might not be a bad idea. I'd love to hear other from other vasoline experienced truckers who have experience.....

Cmanya, you scare me.....

also good for battery terminals....

Battery terminals eh? No wonder you can't find used batteries in SF anymore.

If you get a scratch in your paint smear a little vasoline on it until you can get it painted. It won't creep and will stay through washings, remove it with mineral spirits when you are ready to paint. Stops rust from starting.

Larry

Would you use the baby fresh or the original unscented?

Pal,
Don't let me scare ya. When I see an opportunity to joke, off I go. Hey maybe there will be a new program this next season called "Queer eyes for a straight 6 ?" (this sounds like a good lounge topic).

Actually I read last night about a similar comment made by Just Me, using Vasoline to protect scratches. The only thing for me is that I would need to buy industrial quantity to cover my poor beast. It has more scratches than paint.

I use vaseline to rebuild automatic transmissions and assembly lube to reassemble engines. For transmissions it is recommended in the ATSG manuals. Lubricates piston seals and helps keep pesky thrust bearings in place.

I have used vasoline for rod and main bearings for years, but I would have a fear that it wouldn't lube the cylinder walls long enough and they would run dry and start squeeking. I really prefer to use a heavy weight oil that wouldn't run off quickly. You don't need anything to hold the rings in place, the compressor will do that. Don't forget to stagger the gaps and also check end gap closely. Too little and you may break a ring on heat expansion. As someone stated, vasoline is a big aid in assembling automatic trannys.

Truck Tinker

I've used a mix of vas. and baking soda on the bat terminals. Keeps the "bloom" down I guess.
Scott