Proper maintenance is essential to ensuring the long-lasting performance of your OzHitch coupling, especially when towing under tough conditions. Regular greasing reduces friction, prevents wear, and ensures smooth articulation. All OzHitch couplings are equipped with grease nipples to make the lubrication process easy.
This guide covers how to grease the body of your OzHitch coupling. If you’re looking to grease the uni joint, refer to our separate How to Grease an OzHitch Uni Joint guide.
Grease Nipples on OzHitch Couplings
Each OzHitch model comes with strategically placed grease nipples to ensure that both ends of the coupling receive adequate lubrication.
- 2.0T Models: Equipped with 2 grease nipples—one at the bolt end and one at the fork end.
- 2.5T and 3.5T Models: These models have 1 grease nipple, located near the bolt end.
For proper lubrication, it’s important to grease the coupling until you see grease coming out from both the nut end and the fork end of the coupling. This ensures that the internal parts are well-lubricated and functioning smoothly.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Grease gun (compatible with the grease nipples)
- High-quality lithium-based grease (or similar heavy-duty lubricant)
- Clean cloth or rag (to wipe away excess grease)
- Safety gear (gloves and safety glasses)
Step-by-Step Guide to Greasing Your OzHitch Coupling
Step 1: Clean the Grease Nipples and Coupling
Before applying grease, ensure the area around the grease nipples is clean. Use a clean cloth to wipe away any dirt, old grease, or debris that could contaminate the new grease.
Step 2: Attach the Grease Gun
- 2.0T Models: You will need to grease both the nut end and the fork end.
- 2.5T and 3.5T Models: Attach the grease gun to the single grease nipple located on the body of the coupling.
Ensure the grease gun nozzle is securely attached to the nipple to avoid leakage during application.
Step 3: Apply Grease
- Begin pumping the grease gun. Continue applying grease until you see grease starting to come out from both ends of the coupling—the nut end and the fork end.
- On the 2.0T models, repeat this process for both grease nipples to ensure all internal parts are fully lubricated.
Step 4: Wipe Away Excess Grease
Once you’ve applied enough grease, remove the grease gun and wipe away any excess grease that has seeped out. Keeping the exterior of the coupling clean prevents dirt and debris from sticking to the grease and causing buildup.
Step 5: Test the Coupling
After greasing, manually test the movement of the coupling to ensure smooth articulation. If the movement feels stiff or uneven, apply more grease until the parts move freely.
How Often Should You Grease Your OzHitch Coupling?
For regular use:
- Grease the coupling every 3-6 months or every 5,000km of towing, depending on the conditions.
- In off-road or heavy-duty conditions, grease the coupling more frequently, especially after long off-road trips, to ensure it continues to perform smoothly.
Benefits of Regular Greasing
- Reduced Friction: Keeps the moving parts lubricated, reducing wear and prolonging the life of your coupling.
- Smooth Articulation: Regular greasing ensures the coupling moves freely in all directions, making off-road towing smoother.
- Corrosion Prevention: Grease acts as a barrier, protecting metal parts from moisture and corrosion.
Need Assistance? Contact Us!
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to call us on (08) 8260 2277 or Contact Us here. We’re here to help ensure your OzHitch coupling is always performing at its best.
For more installation resources and tips, visit our Resources Page.
OzHitch: Built tough for Australia’s toughest conditions, designed for smooth and reliable towing.
