Grease Fitting Thread Identification
Grease fittings come in many different styles. There are two grease fittings that are most commonly used in the U.S. These are the 1/8″ NPT thread and the 1/4″-28 SAE thread. Based on our own sales data, the approximate frequency of the different grease port threads in the U.S. are:
| 60% of bearings | 1/8" NPT thread |
| 30% of bearings | 1/4"- 28 SAE thread |
| All remaining bearings (10%) | All other threads |
Grease Fitting Thread Gauge – The Easy Way
The easiest way to identify the thread on a grease fitting is to use a tool made specifically for this purpose. Grease fitting thread gauges are available from industrial equipment suppliers for around $50. Although convenient, you can identify your grease fitting thread without spending the money on this specialty tool.
Three Steps to Determining Grease Fitting Threads – Without a Thread Gauge
Measurement #1 – Straight or Tapered?
Measurement #2 – Thread Pitch
The number of threads per inch is known as the thread pitch. The best way to determine thread pitch of a grease fitting is to compare the threads to something with a known thread. A thread pitch gauge is the ideal tool for this but you can also compare the grease fitting threads to a known bolt thread, pipe thread, or another grease fitting.
Place the known thread against the unknown thread. If the two threads engage, the thread is the same. If they do not, the thread is different.
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Measurement #3 – Thread Diameter
The last measurement you need is the outer or major diameter of the thread. A set of calipers makes this an easy measurement to take.
Finally, Find your Thread on the Chart Below
Dozens of different variations exist in grease fitting threads. We carry the necessary fittings and adapters to fit nearly every grease fitting port thread. These fittings cover more than 98% of the bearings found in the US. See the chart below to identify your grease fitting thread.
