Sta-Lube Engine Assembly Lube 10 oz Tube — Moly-Graphite, Lithium Thickener for Extreme Pressure Protection

When building or reassembling an engine, the first moments of operation are the most vulnerable. Sta-Lube SL3331 provides a tacky, high-load lubricant that stays where you put it, reducing wear, friction, and galling between critical components during assembly, start-up, and break-in. Its lithium thickener and moly-graphite additives create a protective film on bearings, journals, cam lobes, and other sliding or rotating parts so parts move smoothly from the first rotation.

How does this assembly lube protect components at start-up?

The SL3331 formula adheres to metal surfaces and forms a boundary layer that resists metal-to-metal contact during the initial few revolutions when hydrodynamic oil pressure hasn’t fully built. Molybdenum disulfide and graphite in the grease provide solid lubrication under high pressure, reducing the risk of scuffing and galling. It’s intended as a temporary, high-pressure barrier until engine oil circulation takes over.

• Creates a tenacious film that resists fling-off and stays on bearings and journals.
• Moly-graphite particles provide load-carrying capacity under extreme pressure.
• Lithium thickener ensures consistent texture and pumpability during application.
• Ideal for cam lobes, lifters, crank journals, piston skirts, and gears.

Where should I apply Sta-Lube SL3331 during assembly?

Apply a thin, even coat to surfaces that will experience sliding or rotational contact during initial start-up. Focus on bearing surfaces, cam lobes, lifters, main and rod journals, and any fresh-machined faces that require protection before oil pressure builds. Avoid over-application in areas where excess grease could migrate into oil passages.

• Rod and main bearings — light film on shells and journals.
• Camshaft lobes and lifters — smear a small amount on lobes and follower faces.
• Piston skirts and rings — coat skirt areas to reduce scuffing during break-in.
• Threads and fasteners — use sparingly on studs to prevent galling during torqueing.

What type of engines and jobs is this product suited for?

Sta-Lube SL3331 works with gasoline and diesel engines across passenger cars, trucks, performance builds, and many industrial engines. It’s tailored for fresh builds, rebuilds, and any application where initial protection against friction and wear matters. The tube format makes it practical for shop use or mobile repairs.

• New engine assemblies and complete rebuilds.
• Performance engines and high-compression builds needing added initial protection.
• Routine component installation—bearings, cams, pistons, and gears.
• Mechanic shops, home garages, and field repairs where a reliable assembly lube is required.

How does Sta-Lube compare to other assembly lubricants?

Compared with light oil or non-fortified greases, SL3331 offers a thicker, more tenacious film and contains solid lubricants that perform under extreme pressure. Its lithium base balances adherence and ease of application, while the moly-graphite package gives extra protection on high-load contact surfaces. Choose it when you need a stay-put grease rather than a runny oil for initial protection.

• Thicker film than light oils—reduces wash-off at first rotation.
• Solid additives (moly, graphite) add load capacity absent in plain oils.
• Tube packaging enables controlled, targeted application during assembly.

Who is this for: Sta-Lube SL3331 is for professional mechanics, engine builders, motorsport teams, and DIY enthusiasts rebuilding or assembling internal combustion engines who want reliable, high-pressure protection during start-up and break-in. It’s a practical choice when you need a grease that clings to critical metal surfaces and provides extra load-bearing support until full lubrication is established by the engine’s oil system.