If you’ve ever pressed a bearing onto a shaft or into a housing, you’ll know how critical that connection is. But even when everything feels tight, microscopic gaps can still exist between those metal surfaces. Over time, vibration and stress can exploit those tiny voids, leading to fretting, corrosion, and eventual failure.
That’s where retaining compounds come in—and why more workshops are turning to them as a go-to solution for better long-term performance.
What Is a Retaining Compound?
A retaining compound is a liquid adhesive applied to cylindrical parts—like bearings, gears, and pulleys—during assembly. Once applied, it flows into the microscopic gaps and cures into a tough thermoset plastic, effectively locking components in place. It’s not a threadlocker or a surface sealant; it’s designed specifically for press-fit assemblies where movement isn’t just unwanted—it’s a failure waiting to happen.
Why Use One?
If you're running a fleet or servicing trucks, trailers, or heavy equipment, you’re probably aiming for two things: less downtime and longer component life. Using a retaining compound can help you achieve both by:
- Preventing fretting and wear from movement between parts
- Distributing load more evenly across contact surfaces
- Protecting against corrosion, especially when using dissimilar metals
- Making assembly easier, as it also acts as a lubricant before curing
In short, it adds strength and longevity to components that are otherwise just relying on friction.
Common Applications in NZ Workshops
- Securing bearings on shafts in truck wheel ends
- Locking gears in gearboxes and transfer cases
- Holding cylindrical pins and sleeves in place
- Press-fitting pulleys and hubs on engines or drives
These are everyday tasks in New Zealand’s road transport industry—especially for workshops servicing trailers, linehaul units, and ag equipment.
Choose the Right Product for the Job
Not all retaining compounds are created equal. Some are designed for large gaps or high temperatures, while others are best for quick curing or easy disassembly. At TWL, we stock a range of Loctite® Retaining Compounds, including:
- Loctite 609 – general purpose, low viscosity
- Loctite 620 – high temperature and high strength
- Loctite 660 – for large gaps or worn components
- Loctite 680 – high strength for tight fits
Want the Technical Detail?
For a full breakdown—including cure times, strength ratings, and application gaps—check out our Retaining Compound Tech Topic PDF. It’s a handy reference for workshop managers and technicians alike.
Bottom line? If you’re not using retaining compounds yet, you might be missing an easy way to reduce comebacks and improve reliability. It’s a simple addition at the bench that can save you major headaches down the line.
Got questions? Pop into your local TWL branch or give us a call—we’re here to help you keep your gear on the road and working as it should.