hudson fluid type help

hello, i have started back on my 1951 hudson 4 door hornet project.
wondering what the recommended fluids are for the non-power steering gear box and for the rear end.
both have leaky seals i need to replace and will have to refill the fluids. 
thank you

Comments

  • Jon B
    Jon B Administrator
    I think you're going to see a lot of different opinions here! 

    Here's mine: for the steering box on my 1937, I use the #600 grease used in Model A Fords (it's a heavy syrup, and doesn't seem to leak). 

    For my rearend and transmission I am using a type GL-4 because it is not harmful to any "yellow metals" (brass, bronze).  I was using a 140W (type GL-4) but but have since switched to a lighter weight oil (85-90) because the heavier oil seemed to foul up the action of the OD solenoid,  caused backfiring during kickdown.
  • saon
    saon Member
    thank you Jon, where do i find #600 grease? is that a common hardware/farm store item?
    i know newer cars us 75-90 gl-4 rear lube. and i assume that would work. 
    i do not have a service manual and wondered what was recommended for both.  i have a few days until my seals arrive so i will see if there are any other suggestions as well. 
  • Kdancy
    Kdancy Senior Contributor
    edited August 2020
      For steering boxes---
    John Deere "corn head" grease has been used in these boxes for years.
    https://www.amazon.com/John-Deere-Corn-Head-Grease/dp/B00CSBOLL8

    Also, Studebaker International carries a steering box grease I and others use. 
    Both are a "fluid" type grease made for gear boxes. 
    https://www.parts123.com/parts123/yb.dll?parta~partsort

  • Jon B
    Jon B Administrator
    The 600 weight can be found at Model A suppliers like "Mac's" https://www.macsautoparts.com/ford_mercury_early/oil-600w-for-rear-end-and-transmission-1-quart-bottle.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&adpos=&scid=scplp32-16020-1&sc_intid=32-16020-1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgYj0xe6n6wIVhIvICh0YaQoKEAQYAiABEgL_p_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
    but you might ask any Model A owners you know, if they can get their grease locally.  Actually, I'm not "pushing" this -- some of our Hudson people will probably have ideas of where you can get similar heavy oil locally.  Like at your John Deere dealer's!
  • Old Fogey UK
    Old Fogey UK Expert Adviser
    I was recommended by guys on this Forum to use Penrite semi fluid grease and I'm pleased with it. None of the leaks I had with normal steering box oil.
  • saon
    saon Member
    thanks to all, i picked up some lucas 75-90 synthetic as recommended by WRP parts when i ordered a new gear box output shaft seal. 

    wish i knew some model A owners as i have been thinking i need to add 1 to my life to slow it down, sit back and enjoy a simpler outlook on life.  im 44 and just havent gotten into that group yet. but i do intend to soon, life is short.