Sta-Lube Engine Assembly Lube SL3331 — 10 wt oz Tube, Moly-Graphite Lithium Formula

Sta-Lube Extreme Pressure Engine Assembly Lube SL3331 is a moly-graphite fortified, lithium-based grease designed to protect metal-to-metal surfaces during engine assembly, initial start-up, and break-in.

When building or rebuilding an engine, the first moments of operation are the most vulnerable for bearings, cam lobes, piston skirts, and other sliding contacts. This 10 wt oz tube of Sta-Lube SL3331 lays down a tacky film that resists fling-off and keeps lubrication where engines need it most before normal oil pressure builds. The formula combines a lithium soap base with molybdenum disulfide and graphite to reduce friction, prevent galling, and limit wear during assembly and the critical break-in interval.

How does this assembly lube protect engine components during start-up?

The product sticks to metal surfaces and forms a protective boundary that stays in place until the engine’s oil system reaches operating pressure. Its solid lubricants (moly and graphite) provide low-friction contact under high loads and sliding motion, reducing risk of scoring and early wear.

• Adheres to bearings, cam lobes, lifters, and piston skirts to prevent dry starts.
• Moly and graphite reduce friction at high contact pressures.
• Lithium-thickened base resists melting and fling-off at elevated temperatures.
• Leaves a stable film until engine oil takes over lubrication duties.

Where and when should I apply Sta-Lube SL3331 in an engine build?

Apply the assembly lube to any metal-to-metal sliding or rolling surfaces prior to initial engine start. Typical application points include main and rod bearings, camshaft journals and lobes, lifters, rocker arms, and piston skirts.

• Coat bearing surfaces lightly but thoroughly before installation.
• Spread a thin layer on cam lobes and journals to protect lobes during first rotations.
• Apply to wrist pins, lifter faces, and pushrod ends where contact occurs.
• Use on exposed fastener threads or mating surfaces when transient lubrication is needed.

What are the formulation highlights and performance characteristics?

SL3331 uses a lithium soap grease base blended with solid lubricants to combine tenacious adhesion with extreme-pressure performance. The blend resists washout and retains lubricity under heavy loads and the high sliding velocities typical in engines during break-in.

• Lithium-thickened grease gives tackiness and thermal stability.
• Moly-graphite pack reduces metal-to-metal friction and micro-welding.
• Designed specifically for assembly and transient protection, not as a running engine oil.
• Packaged in a convenient 10 wt oz tube for controlled application.

Who is this for? Engine builders, professional technicians, and home mechanics rebuilding or assembling gasoline and diesel engines will find Sta-Lube SL3331 useful to protect critical surfaces during the vulnerable start-up and break-in period. It’s intended for use on bearings, camshafts, pistons, and other rotating or sliding parts where a temporary, high-performance protective film is needed until normal oil circulation begins. Avoid using it as a substitute for engine oil; follow manufacturer recommendations for torque, tolerances, and initial break-in procedures.