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View Full Version : Lubrication for the rack and pinion?


rb99
06-08-2009, 10:02 AM
I am wondering what people are using to lub the rack and pinion on the X and Y?

I did a search but not much came up.

Thanks,

RB
bob_s
06-08-2009, 10:55 AM
Shopbot sent me a multipurpose lithium grease with my PRS. I just use a very little bit,but still expect to have gear tracks on whatever you wear around the machine. I try not to lean against the X track, but it happens every day.
paulkiecka
06-08-2009, 12:21 PM
in this thread:
http://www.talkshopbot.com/forum/messages/312/18945.html
R Ball suggested using Gunk motorcycle chain oil.
I've tried it and it seems to do pretty good.
bernott
06-08-2009, 09:26 PM
Richard, i have tried everything on the market for racks and v rails and the best I've used so far is Wurth HSS 2000 lub. it goes on like a spray and then turns into this clear grease.
knight_toolworks
06-09-2009, 01:16 AM
as long as you clean the outside of the tracks I don't usually get messy.
hh_woodworking
06-09-2009, 05:12 PM
I use spray graphite as it does not collect saw dust and is very slick
Ed
Gary Campbell
06-09-2009, 05:23 PM
I use this, loaded with my favorite black moly grease!


7473


7474
Gary
shoeshine
06-10-2009, 07:27 PM
How often should one lube the bot?
knight_toolworks
06-10-2009, 08:24 PM
I just feel the rails when they start to feel dry or your hands don't get dirty it's time. the home side needs it more then the other I find.
cutitout
06-11-2009, 11:00 AM
I do not understand the lubing of the rails that have rollers run on them -- I see lubercating the rolers barings but not what they roll on. thats like a train running on lubed rails -- let the barings do what they are there for and keep your shirt clean. also i believe it keeps the grit from building up and eroding the rails down.

thats only my 2 cent and probily what it is worth
rb99
06-11-2009, 11:27 AM
Metal on metal...
cutitout
06-11-2009, 12:46 PM
Rollers on a track...not sliders -- I do keep a light oil on them but nothing heavy that holds dirt.

I cut foam and it blows and will stick to anything that is damp -- thats why I keep them dry.
dana_swift
06-11-2009, 09:46 PM
Eric- Generally I like your thinking. However they do lube train tracks, especially on curves.

D
cutitout
06-12-2009, 10:46 AM
I can see that -- but they also dump sand out on the track at the engine for traction.

And my bot has no curves --

This is what make the Shopbot great -- what works for some may not for others. I like my lightly oiled rails and others like heavy grease.

then we end up on a train ride...

What FUN