Grease Nipples – Shackle Bolts

Greasing nipples on caravan spring shackle bolts is vital because they allow you to easily lubricate the pivot points where the shackle bolts rotate in the spring and bush. Proper lubrication directly affects ride quality, component life, and towing safety.

Why They’re Important (Pros)

1. Reduces Wear:
   Regular greasing prevents metal-on-metal contact between the bolt and bush, reducing friction and wear. This helps the suspension last longer.

2. Prevents Corrosion:
   Grease forms a barrier against water and road grime, protecting the shackle bolts and bushes from rust — especially useful in Australia’s coastal or off-road environments.

3. Improves Ride Comfort:
   Smooth articulation of the shackles allows the springs to flex properly, providing a smoother, quieter ride.

4. Easier Maintenance:
   With grease nipples fitted, you can lubricate the suspension in minutes using a grease gun — no need to dismantle parts.

Potential Drawbacks (Cons)

1. Maintenance Needed:
   You must grease them regularly — typically every few thousand kilometres or after water crossings. Neglecting this can lead to seized or worn components.

2. Over-Greasing Risk:
   Too much grease can blow out the rubber or polyurethane bushes, causing premature wear or loss of lubrication.

3. Extra Cost and Complexity:
   Shackle bolts with grease nipples are slightly more expensive and require occasional inspection to make sure the nipples aren’t blocked or damaged.

In short, greaseable shackle bolts are a small investment that can save you costly suspension repairs — as long as you keep up with maintenance.

Would you like me to show you how to properly grease caravan shackles (including what type of grease to use)?

Greasing the nipples (also called zerk fittings) on caravan spring shackle bolts is very important because it allows you to properly lubricate the moving parts of your suspension, which directly affects safety, performance, and longevity.

Here’s a breakdown of why they matter:

🔧 1. Reduce Wear and Friction

• The shackle bolts connect the leaf springs to the hanger brackets and shackles.

• These points move slightly every time the suspension flexes.

• Without grease, metal-on-metal contact creates friction, leading to wear on the bushings and bolts.

• Greasing through the nipple forms a thin lubricating film that prevents this.

🧼 2. Prevent Corrosion and Seizing

• Road grime, dust, and water can enter ungreased joints.

• Over time, bolts can rust, seize, or gall (metal surfaces sticking together).

• Grease seals the surface, blocking out moisture and dirt.

🕐 3. Extend Bush and Bolt Life

• Nylon, polyurethane, or bronze bushes can degrade fast without lubrication.

• Regular greasing through the nipple ensures consistent lubrication inside the bush — greatly extending component life.

🚐 4. Maintain Smooth Suspension Travel

• Properly greased shackles let the springs move freely.

• This means smoother towing, less noise, and better control.

• A dry, tight or binding shackle can make the suspension harsh and affect handling.

🧰 5. Ease of Maintenance

• Grease nipples make maintenance quick and clean — no disassembly required.

• You just attach a grease gun and pump until you see fresh grease emerge.

✅ Tip for caravan owners:

• Grease the shackle bolts every 5,000–10,000 km, or before/after long trips.

• Use high-quality lithium-based grease (or marine grease if driving in wet or coastal conditions).

Available Spring Shackle Bolts

• H.T. 9/16-inch x 3.5-inch Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• H.T. 5/8-inch x 3.5-inch Non-Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• 5/8-inch x 4-inch Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• H.T. 5/8-inch x 4.25-inch Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• H.T. 5/8-inch x 4.5-inch Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• M16 Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• H.T. M18 Rocker Roller Greaseable Shackle Bolt
• 60mm Outback Greaseable Shackle Kit