What is John Deere Multi-Lube?

[Robert Brandkamp]

We're currently setting up our 237 Picker on the 3010. The 237 has the central lubrication system and the book says to use "Multi-Lube". However, the book doesn't say what "Multi-Lube" is. Does anyone know what a substitute for "Multi-Lube" would be that I could buy at the local auto parts store?

Thanks!
Bob

 

[Justin Zant]

Multi-lube is a specific oil for those centralized lubrication systems on the old corn pickers and balers and such. I have heard that it can even be used in a grease gun though I have never tried it or seen it done. Multi-lube oil should be able to be gotten right from your john deere dealer.

 

[Robert Brandkamp]

Thanks, I was afraid of that. I was trying to save the 30 mile drive to the John Deere store.

 

[jd-tom]

We purchased some "OO" grease locally and are using that in our multi-lubers. Seems to work just fine. It's like a thick oil or a thin pourable grease.

 

[Mike Aylward]

Robert, the Multi-Lube is designed to be a thick liquid when you pour it in the reservoir but turn to a more solid consistency when it is placed in a warmer bearing. One thing that many folks don't know is that Multi-Lube was put on the market AFTER the Multi-Lube system was first placed on corn pickers and corn heads. Some of my old 227 picker manuals recommend heavy gear lube for the Multi-Lube system. I imagine they found out the gear lube wouldn't stay put as well as it should so they designed the Multi-Lube lubricant. It works well. Mike

 

[Dale in MI.]

You can probably order it online from J.D. Or, pick some up when you get parts for the picker, unless you already have it set to go. I'm not a real big supporter of "dealer only" products, especially with lubes, but in this case I would make an exception. I used it in my 313 head on my JD 45. It works, don't mess with other stuff.

 

[spacechem]

One caveat about Multi-lube system: Sometimes a line can get clogged and you don't know it until you cook a bearing. It's quick and easy to just give a few strokes, but that's no substitute for a regular, thorough inspection. I know a lotta guys took them off and put in zerks. A pain to grease but you know what's going on...

 

[Roger in Iowa]

There is no substitute for Multi Lube. It is a reopectic (sp) material. Liquid pourable into the luber reservoir. When you pump it with pressure it changes to a grease like substance.