Is lithium grease suitable for lubricating the steel headset cups when pressing them into the aluminium frame?

Question

Can I use lithium (lithium soap based) grease for lubricating the steel headset cups when pressing them into the aluminium frame?
I mean cups, not the bearings inside them.
Is it good for preventing corrosion on steel/aluminium contact?

Nathan Knutson · Accepted Answer

Yes, totally suitable. Of all the remotely common grease types, there's not really a scenario on bikes where the type matters for this application unless it's a titanium or stainless frame, and then use anti-seize.
As someone who presses things into bike frames on a regular basis and lives/works in a rainy climate, I do always use grease, but it's primarily for information, not corrosion resistance. Greasing the surface every time comes close to normalizing the contribution that surface friction makes to the force required, so problems with the press fit are easier to pick out in both the too loose or too tight direction.

cyanrarroll · Answer

Grease will do much more to protect it than nothing, with many mechanics preferring marine-grade grease if near the ocean or salted roads.  Optimally, you should use an anti-seize compound.  In general:

Grease - Parts that always move and are protected (bearings and shifting system).  For operating temperatures and pressures of bikes, the type of grease is pretty irrelevant unless you are in extreme temperatures or using a hub brake
Oil = Parts that always move and are not protected (chains, brake levers)
Anti-seize - Parts which are friction fit or threaded that do not need extra holding capacity (most threads).  Especially useful for dissimilar metal contact points and is more water resistant than grease.  Again, marine grade is preferred.
Thread locker - Parts which are threaded that need a bit more friction after torqued down and vibration protection (handlebar clamps, fender mounts).  Keep note that removing a fastener after the threadlock is cured will break it's form and require another application.
RTV Silicone (clear) - Apply over fastener heads that are not frequently accessed to prevent corrosion of head.
Tung/Boiled Linseed Oil - For spoke threads.  Crystallizes as viscous "plastic" which allows rotation of nipple without permanently breaking like thread lockers.
Dry lubricants (teflon, wax) = Lubricates exposed components (and cable housings) better than oil without attracting dirt in dry conditions only.
Carbon paste = Friction enhancer for carbon fiber parts.

Is lithium grease suitable for lubricating the steel headset cups when pressing them into the aluminium frame?

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