What Grease For The Generator and Tach drive

[mxp01]

Gentlemen:

I'm getting some noise from the generator/tach drive area on my BE. I removed the generator in order to renew the grease. What type/brand can you recommend? Plus, does that drive that that goes between the tach cable and generator also get lubrication?

Thanks,
mike Pennell

 

[spritenut]

Thin grease like white lithium inside the tach drive.
Open it up and coat the gears.
Oil under the brass plug on the back of the generator, there is a felt pad inside that plug, it's not a bad idea to pull out the felt and clean it before you oil it. motor oil is fine.

 

[nomad]

While you're at it might be a good idea to pull the tach cable, inspect and maybe let it soak in motor oil for a while. Speedo too. I do that with every old vehicle I acquire. Most need it and it is easier on any component that drives the cable.
KA

 

[mxp01]

The owner's manual said to use some hi temp grease in that fitting with the felt pad. I did that, but really can't imagine how that grease gets past the felt pad and into the generator. So, you are recommending motor oil instead?

MXP

 

[RonMacPherson]

Yup,

In reading early manuals as they translated into American english, what was "paraffin" became grease. Now "paraffin" in British and European racing jargon was either grease or oil(non-synthetic).

The book people hired non auto folks to translate...


Any time a felt pad is found(like under the ignition rotor) a couple of drops of engine oil or even 3-in-1 oil every 5-6 months is a good idea.

 

[Sarastro]

Good point.

The Haynes manual has a glossary of British vs. American terminology. I've found it quite useful on occasion.

 

[mxp01]

Thanks, guys.

It seems to be making a difference already.

MXP