any opinions on whats better to use to lubricate the bearings? I've been told lucas gear oil m8 and also lucas red and tacky.

No help huh?   

Probably because your suggested products are acceptable.

Lithium based grease for the thrust, any old 90 wt goo for the bowl bearings.

The biggest issue is over greasing, of you over grease, three bearing gets hot shortening it's life span.

Under greasing will allow moisture to enter the bearing and start rust forming, shortening the life of the bearing.

GT

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