Lubricants (139 items found)

Lubricants perform a variety of tasks around the house. Use one to make drawers slide easier, get chewing gum off the bottom of a desk or lubricate fittings during your DIY plumbing project. No matter the job, Ace Hardware can help you find the right lubricant oil or spray to get it done right.

What Does Viscosity Mean for Lubricant Spray and Oil?

One of the first things to consider when shopping for a lubricant spray or oil is which viscosity you need for your project. Here are the three main types of lubricant viscosity you’ll come across:

• Low viscosity: A low-viscosity lubricant oil is thin with a similar consistency to water. It offers low resistance, so it can easily move through systems.
• High viscosity: A high-viscosity lubricant oil is thicker and can withstand the effects of heat and heavy-duty loads.
• Grease: A grease lubricant consists of a thickener in a base fluid. It’s semi-solid and the best choice when you need a lubricant that stays in one area. Use a grease gun to apply grease to bearings and other small components with precision.

What Are the Different Types of Lubricants?

Some lubricants are made for specific equipment, while others are designed for a broad range of jobs. The type of lubricant you choose depends on what you need it for—while some lubricants are good for various kinds of equipment, a one-size-fits-all lubricant doesn’t exist.

A few of the most common lubricant oils you might need include:

• Motor oil: Also called engine oil, motor oil keeps the parts in internal combustion engines moving freely.
• Gear oil: Another automotive and marine oil, gear oil allows for the easy movement of parts in transmissions, differentials and transfer cases.
• Hydraulic oil: Also called jack oil, hydraulic oil allows for power transfer in hydraulic machinery while acting as a lubricant and a sealant.
• Silicone lubricant: This multipurpose lubricant comes in a silicone lubricant spray or oil. Silicone lubricant is a good choice when you want a product suitable for various tasks, like working with plastic, rubber, metal, and wood.

What to Look for in a Lubricant

The best lubricant for a job depends largely on the conditions and components. Lubricant oil is often a good choice when lubricating metal on metal. However, thicker grease may be the right option when rust is a concern due to its added protection. In some cases, you may need to apply a non-acid rust remover before lubricating. Penetrants can also serve as pretreatments when parts are completely frozen up.

Shop Silicone Lubricants and More at Ace

If you're unsure which fluids and lubricants are the right choices for your project, we can help. Stop into your neighborhood Ace to get expert help and tips for your next project. Our knowledgeable staff can help you decide whether a silicone lubricant or other product is best and tell you what other essentials you might need to complete the job. Shop Ace for lubricants from top brands like STIHL, CRC and WD-40.