Lubricating ball valves

inconveniently stiff to turn. I don't think they're

and also SG85 spray-on white grease (see the bottom

but not sure if it will penetrate into the bearing

damaged by solvents or whatever.

Is the valve approved for gas as well as water? I'm thinking gas-c*ck grease.

Presumably for use on water? Have you tried getting the moving bits wet? And don't foregt that the pipework will help holding the valve body when installed, they may feel stiff handheld but be OK when supported in the pipework.

I have one which is hard to turn if the downstream tap is turned off. It is as though the downstream pressure fights against it. If I crack the tap open a little then the ball valve turns easily. I don't really understand why - but I put up with it - it is used to isolate my outside tap which needs opening anyway.

I use them outside in the garden and just slip 12" of pipe over the handle so they turn with one finger, they will stay stiff for along time

If it is for use with water, you should only use a WRAS approved lubricant.

It's for use with seawater.

Pete

Silicone grease, then.