AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices

01/2012 Journal Bearings and Lubrication

M-942

JOURNAL ROLLER BEARING GREASE

Specification
M-942

Adopted: 1975; Last Revised: 2012

1.0 SCOPE
This specification covers the lubrication of grease-filled freight car roller bearing/grease seal com-
binations that are not lubricated in the field. Lubrication grease used in current interchange ser-
vice shall be formulated for a minimum life of 500,000 miles. The Wheels, Axles, Bearings, and
Lubrication Committee (hereafter referred to as the Committee) shall approve any grease pro-
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

posed for use in freight car roller bearings (Specification M-934) for interchange service.
2.0 APPROVAL PROCESS
2.1 Any individual desiring certification of roller bearing grease shall make written application
to the AAR. This application will include the location and schedule of laboratory tests for the cer-
tificate of analysis (COA). An AAR observer will witness the vibration test described in
paragraph 4.2.5. At the discretion of the Committee, an AAR observer may be required to witness
other tests. The COA is comprised of the specifications listed in paragraph 4.0, with the exception
of paragraph 4.2.4, “Field service test.” The COA shall be submitted to the Committee when com-
plete.
2.2 If the Committee accepts review of the COA, the applicant will be authorized to contact the
AAR to make arrangements for the field service test (paragraph 4.2.4), outlined in Appendix D.
The AAR will provide the applicant with information concerning the testing schedule, grease sam-
ple size required (200 lb) and fee(s) for testing. The applicant will be allowed reasonable observa-
tion of the test and will be furnished a copy of the results after completion.
2.3 The Committee will review the test results and advise the applicant as to the grease’s
approval. Once approved, no chemical composition or properties of the grease may be changed
without Committee approval. Evidence of unauthorized changes will be sufficient cause for
approval withdrawal. In addition, the grease manufacturer must meet the requirements of the
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices, Section J, Specification M-1003, “Quality
Assurance.”
2.4 If not approved, the field service test samples will be held for 14 days from the date of the
Committee’s ruling. The applicant may make a claim to the Committee for a rehearing during this
time.
3.0 BASIC GREASE REQUIREMENTS
The grease shall be composed of a fluid lubricant and a thickening agent. The fluid component may
be a mineral oil or synthetic fluid and the thickener a metallic soap(s) or non-soap substance. The
use of viscosity index improvers and bentonites or other clay materials is prohibited. The grease
shall be formulated to meet the following requirements:
3.1 Reduce friction and protect bearing components against wear.
3.2 Protect against corrosion caused by moisture accumulated in bearings from condensation.
3.3 Have suitable oxidation resistance in field use.
3.4 Be compatible with bearing seals and bearing materials in that they do not degrade their per-
formance.
3.5 Be free of abrasive/foreign matter and be tolerant of some degree of contamination without
adversely affecting performance.

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M-942

3.6 Not excessively stiffen in cold weather, causing undue resistance to motion.
3.7 Not excessively thin in hot weather and maintain an adequate grease film.
3.8 Not leak from bearing seals.
4.0 SPECIFICATIONS
4.1 Fluid Lubricant
Property Specification Analysis Method
4.1.1 Flash point, °F 340 min. ASTM D-92
4.1.2 Base oil viscosity @ 100 °C 14 cSt min. ASTM D-445

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
4.2 Grease (page 1 of 2)
Property Specification Analysis Method
4.2.1 Consistency ±15 points of ASTM D-217
vendor-submitted
value and between
265 to 385
4.2.2 Corrosion resistance 0 ASTM D-6138 (distilled
water)
4.2.3 Drop point, °F 325 min. ASTM D-2265
4.2.4 Field service test pass Appendix D
4.2.5 Vibration test Appendix A
• Δ Consistency ±15% max.
• State of migration pass
• Distribution
• % Grease in seals 48.0 min
• % Grease in cones 23.0 min.
• Seal compatibility pass
• Wt. % grease loss ±15% max.
4.2.6 % Moisture .10 max. ASTM D-128 (35-g sample)
4.2.7 Oxidation stability ASTM D-942
• psi drop @ 100 hours 10 max.
• psi drop @ 500 hours 25 max.

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M-942

4.2 Grease (page 2 of 2)

Property Specification Analysis Method
4.2.8 Structure stability
4.2.8.1 Future lithium and grandfathered M-942 greases
• Consistency 290 to 340 Appendix C
4.2.8.2 All other greases ±15 points of ASTM D-217
• 100,000 stroke worked established structure
consistency stability value.
4.2.9 Seal compatibility Appendix B
• Δ Hardness ±5 points
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

• Δ Swell volume ±10%

• Seal bond strength pass
4.2.10 Low temperature torque record results ASTM D-4693

5.0 LABELING AND PACKAGING

Each grease container shall be clearly marked with the product name, order number, manufac-
turer’s name, batch number (e.g. Batch No. 12AB3), quantity, and the words “AAR-M942.” The
grease expiration date must be clearly labeled on the container. Grease shall be packed in contain-
ers to prevent contamination (e.g., water, dirt) and shall not be packed with other products.
6.0 QUALITY CONTROL
Once approved by the AAR, suppliers shall provide a certificate of analysis to purchasers on a
batch-by-batch basis comprised of the following specifications from paragraph 4.0: consistency
(paragraph 4.2.1), drop point (paragraph 4.2.3), percentage moisture (paragraph 4.2.6), and struc-
ture stability (paragraph 4.2.8.1 or 4.2.8.2).

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APPENDIX A M-942

APPENDIX A
VIBRATION TEST (PARAGRAPH 4.2.5)
1.0 SCOPE
This test procedure for journal roller bearing grease/grease seal combinations is based on informa-
tion developed that correlates a grease’s migration, distribution, mechanical stability, seal compat-
ibility, and leakage through seals with service performance in the field.
2.0 REQUIRED APPARATUS
2.1 6 1/2-in. × 12-in. Class F preconditioned, AAR defect-free roller bearing (must be broken in for
a minimum of 15,000 miles under load as specified in Specification M-934 before use. The bearing
may be reused for subsequent tests as long as it meets the dimensional tolerances specified in the

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
AAR Manual of Standards and Recommended Practices, Section H, Part II).
2.2 Stub axle to accommodate Class F roller bearing
2.3 100-lb platform scale (.01 lb resolution)
2.4 600 ft·lb torque wrench (set to release at recommended torque value)
2.5 Vibration table (500-lb capacity) equipped with V-block bearing mount fixture and capable of
a peak-to-peak displacement of 1/16 in. in a vertical plane through the stub axle/test bearing at
38 Hz.
2.6 Variable speed motor capable of 1000 rpm
2.7 Flexible coupling to connect the motor to the stub axle on the vibration table
2.8 Grease seals, type to be determined by applicant (Note: Specification M-942 approves the use
of a grease with a particular seal. Use of a different seal with the grease requires requalification).
2.9 Thermocouple and temperature recording equipment
3.0 PROCEDURE
3.1 Bearing Preparation
3.1.1 With the bearing still assembled, use a suitable cone spacer to adjust the lateral to .002 in.
to .010 in. Disassemble the bearing, clean it with a suitable solvent, and allow it to dry. Weigh the
two dry bearing cones assemblies together and record the weight as “D.” Weigh the two dry bear-
ing seals together and record the weight as “F.” Weigh the entire bearing assembly and seals
minus the end cap, cap screws, and locking plate and record the weight as “A.”
3.1.2 Determine the initial consistency of the grease using ASTM method D-1403 (half scale).
Charge the bearing with test grease per the manufacturer’s recommendation for the initial fill
amount, distributing one third of the grease in each of the following areas: inner cone assembly,
outer cone assembly, and cup spacer. Assemble the bearing and seals (pre-lubed with test grease),
reweigh the assembly, and record the weight as “B.”

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M-942 APPENDIX A

3.2 Bearing Application

3.2.1 Ensure that the interference fit of the stub axle journal and bearing is between .0025 in. to
.003 in. Coat the axle stub with an acceptable lubricant and apply the bearing. Install the end cap,
locking plate, and cap screws and tighten in accordance with the AAR Manual of Standards and
Recommended Practices, Section G, Part II.
3.2.2 Place the bearing in the V-block fixture and lock it so that the cup is securely held. Ensure
that the natural frequency of the V-block with the bearing mounted is different than the test fre-
quency to avoid resonance. Connect the stub axle by means of a flexible coupling to the drive motor,
mounted on a stationary platform. Install the thermocouple into the bearing cup and connect it to
the recording equipment to monitor grease temperature throughout the test.
3.3 Test Parameters
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

Run the test in accordance with one of the conditions listed below:

Condition A Condition B
Speed (rpm) 560 900
Duration
Total miles 5,000 5,000
No. revolutionsa/ 2,801,127 2,801,127
Total time (hrs) 92.4 51.9
Test cycle (hrs)
On/off 21/3 24/0
Temperature control of bearing Fan-directed ambient air maintained at Flow of tap water through a jacketed bearing
77 °F ± 2 °F cup activated at 180 °F
Vibration table inputs
Frequency 38 Hz 38 Hz
Displacement 1/16 in. peak-to-peak amplitude in vertical 1/16 in. peak-to-peak amplitude in vertical
plane through axis of stub axle and test plane through axis of stub axle and test
bearing bearing
a/ based on 36-in.-diameter wheel

4.0 INSPECTION/CALCULATIONS
At the conclusion of the test period, remove the bearing from the vibration table. Wipe the exterior
clean of any grease that may have emerged. Weigh the bearing assembly minus the end cap, cap
screws, and locking plate and record the weight as “C.” Disassemble the bearing, using care not to
disturb the grease in the various bearing components. Weigh the two bearing cone assemblies
together and record the weight as “E.” Weigh the two bearing seals together and record the weight
as “G.” Visually inspect the components and determine the following grease properties.
4.1 State of Migration

Pass—pads of grease present on all cage bars, continuous fluid film present on outer raceways
and all rollers, and exclusive of any of the conditions listed below.
Fail —no grease on cage bars, noncontinuous fluid film on outer raceways or rollers, seal
case/seal area is almost empty of grease, grease in center cup cavity is completely
slumped, or any evidence of grease cracking, caking, or globule formation.

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APPENDIX A M-942

4.2 Distribution
Determine the distribution of grease in the seal case and cone areas using the formulas below. This
number should be equal to or greater than the value specified in paragraph 4.0 of this specifica-
tion.

(weight G – weight F)(100)

% grease (seal case areas) = ------------------------------------------------------------------
(weight C – weight A)

(weight E – weight D)(100)

% grease (cone assemblies) = ------------------------------------------------------------------
(weight C – weight A)

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
4.3 Seal Compatibility

Pass—none of the conditions listed below.

Fail —evidence of excessive seal wear (e.g., loss of hydrodynamic pattern), cracking,
delamination, or hard, abrasive deposit buildup on seal case or wear ring.
4.4 Consistency
4.4.1 After the above visual determinations have been completed, collect three samples of suffi-
cient size for ASTM D-1403 (half scale) from the following bearing areas:

1. Inboard and outboard seal case

2. Inboard and outboard cone assembliesa/
3. Spacer
a/ If sufficient sample size cannot be obtained for 1/2 scale penetration, make up rest of the
sample from the bearing spacer area.
4.4.2 Within 4 hours after the test has been completed, determine the consistency for each sam-
ple and calculate the change (Δ) in consistency using the formula below. Report the average as the
final consistency. This number should not exceed the value specified in paragraph 4.2.5 of this
specification.

(initial consistency – final consistency)(100)

Δ consistency = -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(initial consistency)
4.5 Weight % Grease Loss
Determine the amount of grease lost through the seals using the formula below. This number
should not exceed the value specified in paragraph 4.2.5 of this specification.

(weight B – weight C)(100)

weight % grease loss = ------------------------------------------------------------------
(weight B – weight A)

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M-942 APPENDIX A

M-942 VIBRATION TEST WORKSHEET

Grease Type Date
Seal Type Test Conditions A B
Grease Distribution/Grease Loss Weight
A pretest—nonlubricated bearing assembly without cap screws, endcap, locking plate
B pretest—lubricated bearing assembly without cap screws, endcap, locking plate
C posttest—lubricated bearing assembly without cap screws, endcap, locking plate
D pretest—bearing cones dry
E posttest—bearing cones, lubricated
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

F pretest—seals, dry
G posttest—seals, lubricated
Yes No
Grease on all cage bars posttest
Continuous lube film on outer raceway posttest
Continuous lube film on all rollers posttest
No grease in seal case areas posttest
Signs of grease cracking posttest
Signs of grease caking posttest
Signs of globule formation posttest
Penetration Pretest/Posttest Value
Initial pretest
Seal posttest
Cone assemblies posttest
Spacer posttest
Inspection/Calculations Pass Fail Results
State of migration
Distribution
Seal compatibility
Consistency
Percentage weight loss
Conclusion Yes No
Recommend approval

Signature ____________________________________________ Date ________________________________________

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APPENDIX B M-942

APPENDIX B
SEAL COMPATIBILITY TEST (PARAGRAPH 4.2.9)
1.0 SCOPE
This test procedure, based on ASTM D-471, determines the effect of grease on journal roller bear-
ing grease seals. Specimens are immersed in a sample of grease for 4 weeks, heated at 100 °C, and
inspected weekly. At each inspection, a determination of seal swell, durometer hardness, and seal
bond strength is made.
2.0 REQUIRED APPARATUS
2.1 Cold test jars (35 mm O.D. × 125 mm H, ASTM D-97)

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
2.2 Oven capable of maintaining 100 °C ± 1 °C
2.3 Analytical balance, capable of suspension weighing and 1-mg resolution
2.4 Lint-free tissues
2.5 Distilled water
2.6 Isopropyl alcohol (reagent grade)
2.7 Acetone (reagent grade)
2.8 Razor blade
2.9 Buss bar wire (30 AWG)
2.10 Modified Shore A durometer
3.0 PROCEDURE
3.1 Seal Swell Test
3.1.1 Test specimens may be sections of a seal with the element removed from the seal case or
standard test specimens per ASTM D-471. A total of three specimens are required. All specimens
should be of one manufacturer and one compound and have been manufactured less than 1 year
ago.
3.1.2 Specimens cut from seals should be prepared by first removing the garter spring from the
seal. The rubber should then be cut away from the metal case with a razor blade. Cut the rubber
into 1-in.-circumferential segments, eliminate any rough edges with a razor blade, and clean thor-
oughly with a lint-free cloth. Insert a 2 1/2-in. piece of buss wire into the corner of each specimen to
enable suspension during weighing (see Fig. B.1).

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M-942 APPENDIX B

2 1/2" 1"

Seal Section Test Specimen

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

ASTM D471 Test Specimen

Fig. B.1 Seal swell test specimen—method of attaching wire for weighing
3.1.3 Weigh each specimen in air to the nearest milligram and record the weight as “W1.” Then
weigh each specimen in distilled water at room temperature and record the weight as “W2.” When
performing the distilled water weighing, ensure that no bubbles cling to the specimen and that the
amount of wire immersed is minimized and kept constant for subsequent weighings.
3.1.4 Quickly dip each specimen in isopropyl alcohol to remove any water and blot dry with a
lint-free tissue. Completely submerge each specimen in a test tube containing 100 g of grease.
Place test tubes in an oven maintained at 100 °C ± 1 °C.
3.1.5 Remove the specimens from the test tubes after 7 days and cool to room temperature by
placing each specimen in a cool, clean portion of unused test grease.
3.1.6 Once cooled, remove one specimen from the grease and clean with lint-free tissue. Within
30 seconds, quickly dip the specimen in acetone and blot dry with a lint-free tissue.
3.1.7 Weigh the specimen in air as before and record the weight as “W3.” Weigh the specimen in
distilled water as before and record the weight as “W4.” Dip the specimen quickly in isopropyl alco-
hol, blot it dry with a lint-free tissue, and place it back in the test tube containing the test grease.
3.1.8 Repeat paragraphs 3.1.6 and 3.1.7 for the other two specimens.
3.1.9 Repeat the above procedure every 7 days for a total of four consecutive 7-day periods
(28 days).
3.2 Hardness and Bond Strength Tests
3.2.1 Hardness test specimens may be sections of a seal with the element still attached to the
seal case, removed from the seal case, or standard test specimens per ASTM D-471. The hardness
tests may be made on the same test specimens as the bond strength test. Bond strength test speci-
mens must be seal sections with the element still attached to the seal case. A total of three speci-
mens are required for each test. All specimens should be of one manufacturer and one compound
and have been manufactured less than 1 year ago.
3.2.2 Specimens cut from seals should be prepared by first removing the garter spring from the
seal. Cut the seal into 1-in.-circumferential segments with the use of a hack or band saw. Elimi-
nate any rough rubber edges by trimming with a razor blade and clean thoroughly with a lint-free
cloth.
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APPENDIX B M-942

3.2.3 If separate hardness test specimens are being used, they should be prepared by the proce-
dure in either paragraph 3.2.8 (case attached) or paragraph 3.2.9 (case removed) or per ASTM
D-471.
3.2.4 (Hardness test only) Determine initial hardness readings of the test specimens as described
in paragraph 3.2.8 or paragraph 3.2.9.
3.2.5 Completely submerge each specimen in a test tube containing 100 g of grease. Place test
tubes in an oven maintained at 100 °C ± 1 °C.
3.2.6 Remove the specimens from the test tubes after 7 days and cool to room temperature by
placing each specimen in a cool, clean portion of unused test grease.
3.2.7 Once cooled, remove one specimen from the grease and clean with lint-free tissue.

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
3.2.8 (Hardness seal case attached specimens only) Referring to Fig. B.2, lay test specimen (A) on
a flat working surface with the seal lip facing up. Center a 5/8-in.-long × 1/2-in.-diameter piece of
rod (B) against the specimen case and about 1/2 in. from the lip. Insert a stiff 6-in. machinist ruler
or equivalent over the rod and under the lip. Apply a downward pressure so that the inside fluid
lip surface (D) is parallel with the working surface. Apply the probe foot of the modified Shore A
durometer to the inside lip surface, press down firmly, and record the reading.

A = Test Specimen
B = Drill Rod
C = Machinist Scale
D = Fluid Lip—Inside Lip Surface

Fig. B.2 Durometer and bond test specimen—procedure for measuring durometer
3.2.9 (Hardness seal case removed/ASTM D-471 specimens only) Lay the specimen flat on a hard
working surface and take a hardness reading in the center of the specimen with a modified
Shore A durometer. Record the reading.
3.2.10 (Bond strength specimens only) Inspect the bond between the rubber and metal case for
any tendency of loosening and note accordingly.

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M-942 APPENDIX B

3.2.11 Dip the specimen quickly in acetone, blot it dry with a lint-free tissue, and place it back in
the test tube containing the test grease.
3.2.12 Repeat paragraphs 3.2.8 through 3.2.11 for the other two specimens.
3.2.13 Repeat the above procedure every 7 days for a total of four consecutive 7-day periods
(28 days).
4.0 CALCULATIONS
4.1 Seal Swell Test
4.1.1 Determine the change in volume for each of the three specimens for the 7-, 14-, 21-, and
28-day periods using the formula below.
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

Δ swell volume = [----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

( W3 – W4 ) – ( W1 – W2 ) ] ( 100 )
( W1 – W2 )
where
W1 = initial specimen weight in air (0 days)
W2 = initial specimen weight in water (0 days)
W3 = test period specimen weight in air (7, 14, 21, 28 days)
W4 = test period specimen weight in water (7, 14, 21, 28 days)
4.1.2 Determine the average Δ swell volume for the 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-day periods. The average
Δ swell volume for the 28-day period must not exceed the value specified in paragraph 4.2.9 of this
specification.
4.1.3 A plot of the test readings at 7-day intervals must indicate that any effect of the grease on
the seal has stabilized.
4.2 Hardness Test
4.2.1 Determine the Δ hardness for each of the three test specimens from the 7-, 14-, 21-, and
28-day test periods using the formula below.

(initial hardness – test period hardness) (100)

Δ hardness = ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
initial hardness

4.2.2 Determine the average Δ hardness for the 7-, 14-, 21- and 28-day periods. The average Δ
hardness for the 28-day period must not exceed the value specified in paragraph 4.2.9 of this spec-
ification.
4.2.3 A plot of the test readings at 7-day intervals must indicate that any effect of the grease on
the seal has stabilized.
4.3 Bond Strength Test

Pass—no tendency of the rubber separating from the metal case was observed for any of the
three test specimens during the 28-day test period.
Fail—rubber separating from the metal case was observed for any of the three test specimens
during the 28-day period.

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APPENDIX C M-942

APPENDIX C
AAR ELEVATED TEMPERATURE ROLL STABILITY TEST
1.0 SCOPE
1.1 This test method covers a determination of the changes in the consistency of lubricating
greases when worked in the roll stability tester for an extended time period at an elevated temper-
ature.
1.2 This test method is based upon ASTM D-1831, except that each grease sample is run for
96 hours in a roll stability test machine equipped to operate at a thermostatically controlled tem-
perature of 180 °F ± 2 °F (82 °C ± 1 °C).
2.0 APPLICABLE DOCUMENTS

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
2.1 ASTM Standards
• D-217: Test for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease
• D-1403: Test Method for Cone Penetration of Lubricating Grease Using One-Quarter and
One-Half Scale Cone Equipment
3.0 SUMMARY OF METHOD
Work a small sample (50 g) of lubricating grease for 96 hours at a temperature of 180 °F ± 2 °F
(82 °C ± 1 °C) in the roll stability tester, equipped with a suitable cover, heater, thermostatic tem-
perature control, and temperature indicator. Perform a worked (60-stroke) penetration on the
grease at 77 °F ± 1 °F (25 °C ± 00.5 °C) before and after rolling.
4.0 APPARATUS
4.1 Roller stability tester, as shown in Figure 1 of ASTM D-1831, except equipped with a suitable
cover, electric heater, thermostatic temperature control, and temperature indicator. Speed of oper-
ation shall be 165 ± 15 rpm.
4.2 One-half scale cone and shaft with worker as described in ASTM D-1403.
5.0 PROCEDURE
5.1 Work a sample of the test grease for 60 strokes and determine the half-scale worked penetra-
tion at 77 °F ± 1 °F (25 °C ± 0.5 °C), in accordance with ASTM D-1403.
5.2 Place 50 g of the unworked grease sample in the test cylinder. Distribute the grease uniformly
on the inside wall of the cylinder with a spatula. Place a weighted roll in the cylinder and tighten
the cap.
5.3 Mount the cylinder in position, start the machine, and set the temperature control for 180 °F
± 2 °F (82 °C ± 1 °C). During the test, check the temperature indicator periodically and adjust the
temperature control accordingly, if necessary.
5.4 At the end of the 96-hour roller period, remove the test cylinder from the machine and allow
it to cool for 24 hours. After cooling, transfer a sufficient quantity of grease to the half-scale worker
and adjust it to a temperature of 77 °F ± 1 °F (25 °C ± 0.5 °C) if necessary. Work the sample of test
grease for 60 strokes and determine the half-scale worked penetration, in accordance with ASTM
D-1403.
5.5 Convert the half-scale penetration value into full-scale equivalent value, using the conversion
formula in ASTM D-1403. Record the full-scale equivalent worked penetration value after rolling.
6.0 INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS
The final full-scale equivalent penetration values shall fall within the limits of paragraph 4.2.8.1
of this specification.

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M-942 APPENDIX D

APPENDIX D
FIELD SERVICE TEST (PARAGRAPH 4.2.4)
1.0 SCOPE
This procedure for qualifying roller bearing grease is based on the performance of a limited sample
of test bearings operating in actual field service conditions.
2.0 REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
2.1 120 to 200 new tapered roller journal bearings
2.2 Surrounding railcar equipment including wheel sets, trucks, and railcar bodies
2.3 100-lb platform scale (0.01-lb resolution)
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

2.4 600 ft·lb torque wrench (set to release at the recommended application torque value)
2.5 Dial indicator (0.001-in. resolution) with magnetic base for axle attachment
2.6 Containers for capturing grease samples
2.7 Camera to document observation
3.0 PROCEDURE
3.1 Bearing Preparation
These test bearings will be viewed as a grease and seal system. Therefore to qualify for inter-
change service, independent test populations of this experimental grease will be required with a
specific grease seal. Prior to filling with the experimental grease, record the weight of the bearing
assembly (excluding the end cap, cap screws, and locking plate). Fill the bearing with grease
according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for grease weight and regional distribution.
Record the weight of the lubricated bearing assembly.
3.2 Bearing Application
The bearings must be mounted in accordance with the latest revision of the AAR Manual of Stan-
dards and Recommended Practices, Section G, Part II. These bearings should be marked in a man-
ner that clearly identifies them as test parts. Wheel set and railcar identification must be
documented to ensure the tracking and recovery of this group of bearings. This information must
be submitted to the AAR Wheels, Axles, Bearings, and Lubrication Committee prior to commence-
ment of the field service test.
3.3 Running Procedure
A sample group of 120 to 200 new bearings shall operate in medium to high mileage service for
1 year or 100,000 miles, whichever is accomplished first. A reasonable effort should be made to
have the railcars equipped with these test bearings operate in several different types of service or
environmental conditions (e.g., western or eastern coal, intermodal, etc.) The participating railcar
owner must have the ability to provide a record of cumulative miles or hours of operation (with an
estimated average speed) for each test railcar and the ability to provide approximate railcar loca-
tion information at all times. The manufacturer requesting this test must keep the records on each
field service test bearing and provide the required documentation throughout the approval pro-
cess.

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APPENDIX D M-942

4.0 INSPECTIONS
4.1 Interim Inspection
After completion of 3 months in service, an external visual inspection should be performed on a
minimum of 12 test bearings from at least 4 railcars. This should be a joint inspection performed
by the bearing and grease manufacturers. During this interim inspection, the bearing exterior
should be observed for any indications of grease leakage. Observance of loss will be cause for
removal and internal inspection of four bearings exhibiting this leakage problem. Grease loss from
the average of these four bearings exceeding 10% of the original grease fill is unacceptable and
cause for grease/seal package rejection and test termination. Test termination will require removal
of all test bearings with a similar component mix from field service. Grease loss caused by external
mechanical damage to the bearing or seal assembly is not cause for rejection.

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
4.2 Final Inspection
The basis for determining the experimental bearing grease’s acceptability will be the lubricant’s
condition and distribution and the bearing components’ characteristics as observed during the
posttest inspection.
4.2.1 Upon completion of the field service requirement, the bearings must be removed from the
wheel sets and sent to a designated location for joint inspection. Measure and record the posttest
mounted lateral clearance of each tapered roller bearing. Disassembly and inspection will be per-
formed in the presence of an AAR representative on a population of 30 test bearings consisting of 4
or more bearings from each of 5 different railcars. Samples should be selected from the different
service environments. Remove any grease that has emerged from the bearing assembly. Weigh the
assembly (excluding the end cap, cap screws, and locking plate) and compare to the pretest bearing
weight. Record the posttest bearing weight and any change from its initial weight. Disassemble
the test bearing, using care not to disturb the grease in the various bearing components.
4.2.2 Record the grease condition and physical characteristics as described in the test worksheet
found in Appendix B of this specification. The specific attributes are the state of migration,
regional distribution inside the bearing, and the assembly’s ability to retain the grease. The grease
should exhibit proper migration during bearing operation. A fluid film on the raceways and the
rollers is indicative of proper migration. Grease should be adhering to the cage bars and should be
distributed throughout all of the bearing components. The grease must be free of any cracking,
caking, or hard globules. Partial slumping is acceptable.
4.2.3 After completion of the internal inspection, obtain grease samples from each bearing for
analysis by the manufacturer. Label these samples with the bearing reference number and the
accumulated mileage or length of service. Also provide the manufacturer with a copy of each test
worksheet.
4.2.4 Clean the assembly with a suitable solvent and weigh the cleaned bearing. Verify that the
unlubricated weight of the bearing assembly (excluding the end cap, cap screws, and locking plate)
has not changed from the value measured prior to installation. Adjusting for any unlubricated
assembly variation, the difference between the weight of the grease in the bearing prior to test and
the weight of the grease in the bearing at the conclusion of the test is the actual lubricant loss dur-
ing the test. Grease loss in excess of 20% of the original grease fill is unacceptable and cause for
rejection of the grease and seal combination.
4.2.5 The bearing should be examined for indications of high operating temperatures such as
severe component discoloration, scorched or heavily oxidized grease, or blistering of the seals’ elas-
tomer. The raceways and rollers should be examined for wear (e.g., peeling and smearing), mate-
rial fatigue (e.g., spalling), or corrosion (e.g., either pitting or etching with a distinctive ridge). Any
observed damage should be well documented because damage exceeding the limits permitted by
the AAR Roller Bearing Manual is cause for rejection.

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M-942 APPENDIX D

4.2.6 The field service test will be documented as described above. This documentation package
will include the following:
• test worksheets
• recorded grease weights
• lubricated and unlubricated component observations
• recorded mounted lateral clearances
• railcar tracking information
• service durations
This documentation package will be furnished to the AAR within 6 weeks of completing the post-
test inspection. The AAR will then issue a final report on the acceptability of the grease and seal
system. The final report will be subject to review by the Committee. Satisfactory performance
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

results will permit approval for interchange service of the grease and seal system. Unsatisfactory
field performance will result in test termination. Test termination will require the removal of all
test bearings with a similar component mix from field service.

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01/2012 Journal Bearings and Lubrication
APPENDIX E M-942

APPENDIX E
AAR-APPROVED ROLLER BEARING GREASE AND SEAL COMBINATIONS
The following is a list of approved roller bearing grease and seal combinations. This list replaces the
previous list of AAR approved M-942 greases. The AAR number is to be used for product bar coding
and component tracking per requirements of the Manual of Standards and Recommended Practic-
es, Section L, Standard S-920.

Approved Grease Types

Timken
Exxon Premium Shell Shell
Arapen Rail Alavnia Mobolith Mobolith Alavnia
RB-320 Grease EP-D SHC-100 SHC-221 DTR
Aproved Seal Model AAR Bearing Type of

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
(Part Number) Part No. Certificate Bearing XOMX0001 XOMX0002 SOEX0003 XOMX0004 XOMX0005 SOEX0006
Brenco DDL (1007ST) 8AMS0001 ALL D X X X
Brenco DDL (1107ST) ALL E X X X
Brenco DDL (1207ST) ALL F X X X
Brenco DDL (1307ST) ALL G X X X
Brenco ST-212 (1007B) 8AMS0002 ALL D X X X
Brenco ST-212 (1107B) ALL E X X X
Brenco ST-212 (1207B) ALL F X X X
Brenco ST-212 (1307B) ALL G X X X
Brenco ST-212 (G207B) 28 K X X X
Brenco Efficiency Plus (1107G) 8AMS0003 ALL E X X
Brenco Efficiency Plus (1207G) ALL F X X
Brenco Efficiency Plus (G207G) 28 K X X
Brenco Efficiency Plus (G307G) 28 M X X
Brenco Class K Efficiency Plus (G207G) 31 K X X
Brenco Thin Gap 8AMS0004 ALL D X X
Brenco Thin Gap (1107G) ALL E X X
Brenco Thin Gap (1207G) ALL F X X
Brenco Thin Gap (1307G) ALL G X X
Brenco Universal Dry Lock (UDL) Plus 8AMS0005 30 K-SKFa/ X
Brenco Universal Dry Lock (UDL) Plus 27 K-TIMKENb/ X
Federal Mogul (G300164BG5) 8FED0001 ALL D X
Federal Mogul (G300152BG5) ALL E X
Federal Mogul (G300143BG5) ALL F X
Federal Mogul (G300155BG5) ALL G X
Federal Mogul (G300181BG5) ALL C X
Federal Mogul (G300198BG5) 28 K-BRENCOc/ X
FAG/Schaeffler (120988/5) 8FAS0001 32 E X
NTN-Titan (HM127415S4) 8NTN0001 19 D X
NTN-Titan (HM129814S4) 19 E X
NTN-Titan (HM133416S4) 19 F X
NTN-Titan (HM136916S4) 19 G X
SKF GenII (729702) 8SKF0001 ALL D X
SKF GenII (729703) ALL E X
SKF GenII (729704) ALL F X
SKF GenII (729705) ALL G X
SKF GenII (G300198BG3) 28 K-BRENCOd/ X
SKF CR-70113 8SKF0002 ALL E X

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Journal Bearings and Lubrication
M-942 APPENDIX E

Approved Grease Types

Timken
Exxon Premium Shell Shell
Arapen Rail Alavnia Mobolith Mobolith Alavnia
RB-320 Grease EP-D SHC-100 SHC-221 DTR
Aproved Seal Model AAR Bearing Type of
(Part Number) Part No. Certificate Bearing XOMX0001 XOMX0002 SOEX0003 XOMX0004 XOMX0005 SOEX0006
SKF LL (BT2-8547 A-23) 8SKF0003 ALL D X X
SKF LL (BT2-8516 D-23) ALL E X X
SKF LL (BT2-8512 A-23) ALL F X X
SKF LL (SE-BT2-8606A-23) 30 K X
SKF LL (300225BG3) 27 K-TIMKENe/ X
Timken NT (K86860) 8TIM0001 ALL D X X X X
IMPLEMENTED 02/2012

Timken NT (K86861) ALL E X X X X

Timken NT (K85520) ALL F X X X X
Timken NT (K96501) ALL G X X X X
Timken HDL (K151172) 8TIM0002 ALL D X X X X
Timken HDL (K150471) ALL E X X X X
Timken HDL (K147750) ALL F X X X X
Timken HDL (K150189) ALL G X X X X
Timken AP-2 HDL (K153401) 8TIM0003 27 K X X X X
Timken AP-2 (K-154504) 27 M X X X X
Timken EcoTurn (K165474) 8TIM0004 ALL F X X X X
Timken EcoTurn (K163774) 27 K X X X X
Timken Gen 2 HDL (K-161347) 8TIM0005 28 K-Timkenf/ X X X X
a/ For Bearing Certificate 30—Brenco UDL Plus™ has been approved as a replacement seal for
SKF seal LL seal (part SE-BT2-8606-23)
b/ For Bearing Certificate 27—Brenco UDL Plus™ has been approved as a replacement seal for
Timken seal (part K153401)
c/ For Bearing Certificate 28—Federal Mogul (part G300198BG5) has been approved as a
replacement seal for Brenco seals (part G207B) or Brenco (Thin Gap™ part G207G)
d/ For Bearing Certificate 28—SKF GenII (part G300198BG3) has been approved as a replace-
ment seal for Brenco seals (part G207B) or Brenco (Thin Gap™ part G207G)
e/ For Bearing Certificate 27—SKF LL (part 300225BG3) has been approved as a replacement
seal for Timken seal (part K153401)
f/ For Bearing Certificate 28—Timken HDL part number K161347 has been approved as a
replacement seal for Brenco seal (part G207B or G207G)

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Journal Bearings and Lubrication
APPENDIX E M-942

IMPLEMENTED 02/2012
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