QuestionA friend of mine just picked up a used 1989 Craftsman snowblower. I agreed to help him go thru it to get itb ready for winter. It is model# 247.886510. I have found that it was made by MTD.
What is the lubricant used in the gear case that is located between the augers? This case splits in half top to bottom, not side to side. The local dealer sold me a tube of grease, but after splitting the case open, it appears to be an oil or 90w gear lube, not a grease. The case # is 717-456 lower half, 717-455 upper half. I am thinking he gave me the lube for a newer model.
AnswerMost likely the gear box uses the grease. It's not exactly grease but more of a very thick mixture of grease and oil.
Most likely you are seeing wore/old grease that appears to be 90 weight oil. A good rule of thumb on which lubricant to use to to check for seals. If the transmission has round rubber seals like crankcase oil seals then it uses 90 weight. If the gear box has o-ring or felt seals then it takes the grease. Snapper uses "OO" grease and Tecumseh uses a thick stuff than that.
Did the dealer sell you an automotive type of grease in a round tube about 12 inches long? If so then it is not the right stuff. Most of the the snowblower lube comes in a squeezable tube or plastic bag.
Let me know if this helps.
Eric
