Lubricants handle jobs across the house, garage and yard, making drawers slide easier, freeing stuck plumbing fittings, maintaining bike chains and keeping vehicles and outdoor power equipment running smoothly. Explore the range of lubricants at Ace Hardware in formats and viscosities that match your project.
Understanding Lubricant Viscosity
Viscosity is often the first thing to consider. There are three general categories:
- Low viscosity: Thin, water-like oils that move easily through small parts and tight tolerances.
- High viscosity: Thicker oils that can hold up under heat and heavy-duty loads.
- Grease: Semi-solid formulas that can help stay in place on bearings and fittings where a fluid would run off.
Maintaining Outdoor Power Equipment
Chainsaws, trimmers and other outdoor equipment call for purpose-built oils, fuels and greases. Selections typically include:
- Bar and chain oil: Standard, biodegradable and premium formulas designed to help provide consistent lubrication during heavy cutting.
- 2-cycle engine fuel and oil: Pre-mixed 50:1 ethanol-free options can help reduce the risk of engine damage compared to standard pump gas.
- Gearbox grease: Multi-purpose formulas that can support smooth operation in cold and standard conditions.
Multi-Purpose, Silicone and Dry Lubricants
For routine maintenance on hinges, chains, sliding parts and locks, available options may include aerosol sprays with smart straw or precision pen applicators, synthetic and PTFE-based chain formulas, and lanolin-based sprays for corrosion-prone surfaces.
When residue is a concern (on plastic, rubber or window tracks) silicone sprays and dry formulas like powder graphite may be a better fit. Browse the WD-40 lineup for sprays and specialist formulas.
Penetrating Oils and Rust Prevention
Penetrating oils help loosen seized fasteners and can serve as a pretreatment when parts are completely frozen. Rust inhibitors and corrosion coatings help protect metal from future damage, and a non-acid rust remover may be used before lubricating heavily oxidized parts. Marine and underbody coatings are often used on trailers and equipment exposed to salt. Browse the Blaster brand page for related penetrants.
Automotive, Specialty and Trade Lubricants
Motor oil keeps internal combustion engines moving freely, gear oil supports transmissions and differentials and hydraulic (jack) oil transfers power in hydraulic machinery while acting as a lubricant and sealant.
Trade options may include wire pulling foam and gel, dielectric grease, cutting fluid, compressor oil and lock de-icer. The fluids and lubrication department also covers automotive lubrication greases, anti-seize lubricants, brake cleaners, antifreeze, and air conditioner refrigerants.
Choosing the Right Lubricant by Job
Use this quick comparison to narrow the format to your task.
| Lubricant Type | Best For | Key Trait |
|---|
| Multi-purpose spray | Hinges, chains, household | Broad compatibility |
| Silicone | Rubber, plastic, tracks | Non-staining, water-resistant |
| Dry / graphite | Locks, dusty environments | Low residue |
| Penetrating oil | Rusted bolts, seized parts | Capillary action |
| Grease | Bearings, fittings, gears | Stays in place |
Can You Use WD-40 as a Lubricant?
WD-40 is designed primarily as a water displacer and light penetrant, so it can help free stuck parts but may evaporate too quickly for long-term lubrication. For ongoing chain, hinge or gear maintenance, a dedicated lubricating oil, grease or PTFE spray is often a better fit.
Shop Lubricants Near You at Ace Hardware
Our website makes it easy to browse essentials and find project inspiration from your home. If you prefer a more personal experience, visit your local store to speak with our knowledgeable associates who can help you find exactly what you need. Head to Ace to shop lubricants near you and get your home projects back on track.
