Could you Mazerati guys help out a Geo-metro dude?

[sevendale]

I got a second hand old bot (not even blue!) and the Z axis runs on a ball screw: I took it apart and actually fixed it, but I don't know what to lubricate the ball bearings with. It runs fine on 3in1 oil but I stopped once I proved it would run. Any clues? I'm good with wood, but no mechanic.

[ljdm]

A can of spray moly chain lube would work. It dries, and leaves a lube coating. I use it on the pinions and rack also. My 2 cents, I'm sure others have methods that they use that work for them.

[sevendale]

Lou, That was what- 5 minutes? I was googling around and got email! Thanks. I saw a cutaway picture of the bearing assembly and how the balls should actually roll through the system constantly swapping first place in line. So I think my old assembly might be gummed up even if it runs ~apparently~ smoothly. Where did shopbot get these I wonder................. Thanks!

[stevem]

Do not use chain lube on your ball screw. It will gum up and cause the ball screw to seize intermittently. You will then ruin your material. Do not use any thick grease or other lube that dries.

I have had best results with Slick50 engine treatment, but other similar lubricants will work.

[sevendale]

Thanks Steve, I'll stick with oil for now and build a shroud to keep as much dust out of this thing as I can for as long as I can.....so much things to do............

[ljdm]

The moly lube doesn't gum up like grease - its more like a graphite lube. Again, everybody has their own preferences, and different opinions.

[hh_woodworking]

I like spray graphite. It sticks and stays for a long time and does not collect dust to gum up with.