How to Troubleshoot a Grease Gun

A grease gun is an essential tool for the garage, especially if you own a riding lawn tractor, garden tiller, utility trailer or other equipment with rotating parts and bearings. The most common type grease gun for residential service is a manual, hand-held gun. Problems are rare with a manual grease gun. However, when trouble does occur, it is normally due to excessive air trapped within the grease chamber or head.

Instructions

1. Extend the grease gun follower rod from the barrel and lock it into place. Remove the grease gun head by turning it counterclockwise. Ensure the grease gun cartridge is full. If grease level is low, or the grease tube appears damaged, install a fresh tube of grease into the barrel.

2. Install and tighten the grease gun head. Push the follower-rod back into the grease gun barrel and pump the manual handle seven to eight cycles until grease flows from the grease gun tip. If grease does not flow, remove excess air from the grease gun.

3. Pull the follower rod out of the grease gun barrel and lock it into place. Unscrew the grease gun head counterclockwise by one complete turn. Press the follower-rod back into the grease gun barrel. Re-tighten the grease gun head and pump the manual handle until grease flows from the tip.

Tips & Warnings

• Store grease guns in a clean environment to help eliminate trash from entering the lubricant and restricting grease gun flow.

• Protect skin from contacting grease by wearing gloves and long sleeves to avoid possible dermatitis.

References

• U.S. General: Mini Grease Gun Operator's Manual