Itinerant Air-Cooled

Greased the front axle in the '78 Westy recently. As usual, it was EXTREMELY difficult to pump grease into the center grease fitting. I kept pumping until finally grease started coming out of the small hole in the cover plate.

Is this normal, or an indication of a problem?

vwlover77 wrote: ↑

Mon May 13, 2019 4:48 am

Greased the front axle in the '78 Westy recently. As usual, it was EXTREMELY difficult to pump grease into the center grease fitting. I kept pumping until finally grease started coming out of the small hole in the cover plate.

Is this normal, or an indication of a problem?

It is especially normal for a tight center pin. When the pin/bushings wear out and make your car a terror on a windy day, it will be easier to grease. I like to move the wheels from lock to lock as I strain mightily to pump grease in there. The BobD of course, glides from lock to lock with only a little pushback from the steering damper. Many other VWs give me more of a fight with new ball joints and tie rod ends and drag links.
Colin

Once in a blue moon I find a Zerk fitting that isn't performing at its best, and benefits from a sharp and clean dental pick push on the check ball. Of course, keeping the Zerks clean and protected (brake bleeder caps work exceptionally well) helps their longevity and performance too.

Robbie