If you’re using Johnny Joints on your off-road vehicle, knowing how to maintain them is crucial for keeping your suspension system performing at its best. The main form of maintenance for Johnny Joints is simple yet essential—regular greasing or rebuilding when necessary. In this blog, we’ll cover how often you should grease a Johnny Joint, the type of grease to use, how to grease them properly, and when it’s time to rebuild them.
How Often Should We Grease a Johnny Joint?
When you first purchase Johnny Joints, they typically come pre-greased. But over time, they’ll require re-greasing to ensure smooth operation.
For regular use, it’s recommended to grease your Johnny Joints approximately every 10,000 to 15,000 miles (which aligns with your oil change intervals). This ensures that the joints are properly lubricated, preventing wear and tear on the suspension system.
In a forum discussion about the frequency of greasing johnny joints, Some off-road enthusiasts also recommend greasing your Johnny Joints about 2-3 times per year, depending on how frequently you use your vehicle. It’s important to avoid over-greasing; a small amount of grease is sufficient to keep things running smoothly. Too much grease can cause damage to the bushings or snap rings, potentially leading to failure.
What Kinds of Grease Should Be Used on Johnny Joints?
When it comes to greasing Johnny Joints, the type of grease matters. Moly-based grease is highly recommended for these joints. Molybdenum (Moly) grease is designed to withstand high pressure and extreme temperatures, making it ideal for off-road applications. It helps reduce friction and wear, ensuring the Johnny Joint stays functional for a long time.
Avoid using full-synthetic lithium-based grease. While it may seem like a good option, lithium grease can be too harsh for Johnny Joints, leading to premature wear and potential damage. The wrong grease can compromise the effectiveness of the joint, reducing its lifespan.
Difference Between Moly-based and Lithium-based Grease
Moly-based grease: Contains molybdenum disulfide, a solid lubricant that helps reduce friction and wear. It is more suitable for high-pressure applications like Johnny Joints.
Lithium-based grease: While good for many general applications, lithium grease can become too stiff for off-road vehicle parts and may not provide adequate protection under heavy loads and extreme conditions.
How to Grease a Johnny Joint
Greasing a Johnny Joint is straightforward, thanks to the built-in grease zerk (a fitting on the joint housing). The grease zerk allows you to add lubricant without having to disassemble the joint. Here’s how to do it:
Locate the grease zerk: This is where you’ll inject the grease.
Use a grease gun: Attach a grease gun to the zerk and apply grease until you see some old grease begin to flow out from the joint.
Check for excess grease: Make sure not to overfill, as too much grease can damage the components, especially the bushings or snap rings.
It’s that simple! Regular greasing ensures that the Johnny Joints maintain their flexibility, helping your suspension system perform optimally.
When to Rebuild Your Johnny Joint
While greasing is essential for maintenance, there comes a point when rebuilding your Johnny Joints is necessary. If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to consider rebuilding:
Strange noises from the suspension: If you hear a clanking or squeaking sound coming from your suspension, it could be a sign that your Johnny Joint is worn out and needs attention.
Excessive movement in the ball: When the ball in the Johnny Joint can be easily rotated or wobbles, it means the joint has worn out and needs to be rebuilt.
Rebuilding your Johnny Joint involves disassembling it, replacing worn-out parts (like the ball, bushings, and snap rings), and then reassembling the joint with fresh grease.
Conclusion
In conclusion, regular greasing is the key to maintaining your Johnny Joints and ensuring your suspension system stays in top shape. Grease your Johnny Joints every 10,000 to 15,000 miles, or 2-3 times a year, using a moly-based grease to prevent wear. If you start hearing strange noises or notice excessive movement in the joint, it’s time to rebuild.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your Johnny Joints running smoothly and extend the lifespan of your off-road vehicle’s suspension system. Proper care leads to better performance on the trails and less frequent repairs down the road.
