Grease Guns

About Grease Guns

Grease guns are essential lubrication tools used to apply pressurised grease to machinery, vehicles, and equipment through grease nipples (also known as Zerk fittings). These tools deliver lubricant precisely where it's needed, reducing friction, preventing wear, and extending the life of moving parts in everything from automotive components to agricultural machinery. Whether maintaining a fleet of vehicles, servicing construction equipment, or looking after workshop tools, a reliable grease gun is indispensable for proper maintenance schedules.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of manual and cordless grease guns from trusted brands including Sealey, Draper, Lumatic, Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita. Manual options include pistol grip, lever action, and mini push-type models offering simplicity and reliability with no batteries required. Cordless battery-powered grease guns provide consistent pressure delivery and reduced user fatigue during extended lubrication tasks. Available in various capacities from compact 120cc units to high-volume professional models, there's a grease gun suited to every application and budget, accepting both standard cartridges and bulk grease loading.

Applications

• Vehicle Mechanics and Technicians: Servicing ball joints, suspension components, steering linkages, and drivetrain parts on cars, vans, and lorries
• Agricultural Engineers and Farmers: Maintaining tractors, combines, balers, and farm machinery with numerous lubrication points requiring regular greasing
• Plant and Machinery Operators: Keeping construction equipment, excavators, cranes, and forklift trucks properly lubricated on building sites
• HGV and Fleet Maintenance Teams: Regular greasing of commercial vehicle components including fifth wheels, kingpins, and suspension systems
• Industrial Maintenance Engineers: Lubricating production line machinery, conveyor systems, hydraulic equipment, and manufacturing plant
• DIY Enthusiasts and Smallholders: Maintaining garden machinery, ride-on mowers, trailers, and workshop equipment
• Marine Engineers: Servicing winches, trailer bearings, steering systems, and deck equipment in marine environments

Choosing The Right Grease Guns

Manual or Cordless: Manual grease guns offer reliability, lower cost, and no battery concerns for occasional use or remote locations. Cordless models from Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Makita provide consistent pressure, faster operation, and reduced fatigue during extended tasks, though at higher initial investment.

Operating Mechanism: Pistol grip models offer one-handed operation and excellent control for general workshop use. Lever action grease guns generate higher pressure for stubborn fittings and heavy-duty applications. Mini push-type guns provide compact solutions for confined spaces and light-duty lubrication.

Capacity and Loading: Consider whether you prefer the convenience of standard 400g grease cartridges or the economy of bulk loading from larger containers. Higher capacity barrels reduce refilling frequency on large jobs, whilst smaller units improve portability.

Pressure Output: Check the maximum PSI rating matches your requirements. Agricultural and construction equipment often demands higher pressure (6000-10000 PSI) compared to general automotive maintenance (3000-6000 PSI).

Build Quality: Professional users should prioritise heavy-duty construction with steel barrels and robust pump mechanisms. Features like reinforced hoses, comfortable grip handles, and quality couplers ensure longevity under demanding site conditions. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade options from Sealey, Draper, and leading power tool manufacturers.

Safety Information

Pressure Hazards: Grease guns operate under high pressure and can inject grease through skin if the coupler slips or is mishandled. Always ensure couplers are properly seated on grease nipples before pumping. Never point the nozzle at yourself or others, and wear appropriate safety glasses when greasing overhead components.

Over-Greasing: Excessive grease can damage seals, boots, and bearings by creating excessive pressure. Follow manufacturer specifications for lubrication intervals and quantities. Release pressure from the grease gun after use to prevent accidental discharge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a lever action and pistol grip grease gun?

Lever action grease guns use a side-mounted lever that typically generates higher pressure, making them ideal for stubborn grease points and heavy-duty applications. Pistol grip models feature a trigger mechanism allowing one-handed operation, offering better manoeuvrability and control for general workshop tasks. Both types are effective—your choice depends on the application and personal preference.

How do I prime a new grease gun or remove air locks?

When loading a new cartridge, remove the barrel cap and pull back the plunger rod fully. Insert the cartridge (with one end already removed), then unscrew the other end. Push the plunger forward gently until it contacts the grease, then reassemble. Pump the trigger or lever several times with the air bleeder valve open (if fitted) until grease flows steadily from the nozzle without air bubbles.

Are cordless grease guns worth the extra cost?

For professionals performing regular lubrication on multiple vehicles or machinery, cordless grease guns significantly reduce fatigue and speed up maintenance routines. They deliver consistent pressure automatically and are particularly valuable when servicing agricultural or construction equipment with numerous grease points. For occasional DIY use or where budget is constrained, quality manual grease guns from Sealey or Draper provide excellent value and reliability.