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The Hidden Costs of Greasable Parts: Why Switching to Non-Greasable Saves in the Long Run

Aricks non-greasable gauge wheel axle parts

Let’s be honest—no one wakes up excited to grease equipment. It’s messy, time-consuming, and always seems to get bumped down the list when harvest is on, cows are out, or the weather just won’t cooperate. But here’s the kicker: while greasing might seem like a small task, those “little” maintenance jobs can really add up over time—both in labor and cost.

That’s where non-greasable components come in—and why more and more farmers are making the switch.

The Truth About “Low-Cost” Greasable Parts

At first glance, greasable parts look like the cheaper option. You can grab them at most farm supply stores, and sure, the upfront cost seems easier on the wallet.

But what do they really cost you?

Every hour spent greasing bearings, bushings, and joints is an hour you’re not planting, harvesting, or doing something more productive. And let’s not forget the cost of grease, grease guns, downtime, and the eventual wear that happens when you miss a part here or there (because let’s face it, we all do).

Over time, those “cheap” parts start racking up a serious bill—especially when they fail in the middle of the season.

Non-Greasable = Fewer Headaches, More Durability

Now let’s look at non-greasable parts. These aren’t just sealed and maintenance-free—they’re built to last.

Take something like the Aricks Non-Greasable Gauge Wheel Axle Kit. It’s engineered with high-tensile materials and self-lubricating bushings that are specifically designed to handle the harshest conditions without wearing out like traditional options. That means:

  • No daily greasing schedule
  • No missed fittings causing failures
  • No breakdowns when you’re under the gun

These parts don’t just save time—they outlast the competition, meaning less downtime and fewer mid-season part swaps. That’s a big win when you’re chasing tight weather windows or managing acres on a tight schedule.

Do the Math

Let’s say you spend 10–15 minutes greasing equipment each day during peak season. That adds up to several hours a week. Multiply that by your labor rate—or the opportunity cost of what else you could be doing—and the real expense becomes clear.

Add in the cost of grease, fittings, and premature part failures, and it’s easy to see how non-greasable components start paying for themselves pretty quick.

Built for Today’s Farms

Modern farms are running faster, harder, and longer than ever before. You don’t have time for daily greasing routines or surprise equipment failures. Non-greasable parts are built for that pace—with materials and designs that hold up, season after season.

Whether it’s on your header, planter, or tillage tools, swapping out greasable parts for sealed, high-durability components is one of the easiest ways to improve uptime and cut long-term maintenance costs.

Bottom Line

Greasable parts might look cheaper, but they’ll cost you more in the long run. With non-greasable components—especially high-performance options like the Aricks kits—you’re not just buying convenience. You’re buying durability, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Thinking of making the switch? Let’s talk about which parts of your equipment could benefit the most—we’ll help you find the right fit and start saving right away. Give us a call at 1-855-612-7006.

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