Just wanted to get a feel for what everyone is using to lubricate their machines. I know they make a specific oil for the larger lathes running gear and another oil for the ways but what are you guys with the smaller lathes like the Hightower and Midamerica, Cue companion, and such using to keep your machines lubricated and functioning as close to new as can feasibly be managed?
Machine Lubrication
- Thread starter cnyncrvr
- Start date
Mobil Vectra Oil #2.
You can thin it with acetone or denatured alcohol for different use.
You can thin it with acetone or denatured alcohol for different use.
Transmission fluid works very good.
I have gallons of this kind of way oil for my metal working CNC, but have never even tried it on my smaller machines. I just always used motor oil on the smaller machines.
Tranny fluid works great on most lathes, prevents rust, penetrates well, and doesn't create the oil 'snot' when wood dust gets on it. it stays on the metal with a thin film way longer with fewer issues than anything else I've used.
Dave
I like trans fluid on my small CNC mill but not on hard coat anodized aluminum.
Most parts in a front wheel drive transmission are aluminum, and it holds up well, considering the wear and tear tranny parts go through, 1000's of miles...etc... a lathe is small potatoes to it, and at $5-$6 a quart....can't beat it
Dave
I'm also a firm believer in ATF on my Hightower,but I've also found something else that works quite well,esp when you consider the application method.
Plain old Chap Stick
. It might not work on anything else,but trust me it works like HELL esp if you are only moving the carriage a short distance in Z for a CNC or lengthwise on a manual. Tommy D.
Plain old Chap Stick
. It might not work on anything else,but trust me it works like HELL esp if you are only moving the carriage a short distance in Z for a CNC or lengthwise on a manual. Tommy D.
Tranny fluid is what Hardinge has spec for the carriage lubrication on the HLV lathe.
Lube
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I've used the STR8-30 oil and when the can ran dry I used air compressor pump oil that works just as well on ways,gibs and in/on/around brass/bronze bushings..
If you guys n gals are using a non industrial machine I highly suggest you clean and inspect your machines daily... I've seen and heard of to many Hightower type lathes that are locked/seized up...
Rob.M
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I've used the STR8-30 oil and when the can ran dry I used air compressor pump oil that works just as well on ways,gibs and in/on/around brass/bronze bushings..
If you guys n gals are using a non industrial machine I highly suggest you clean and inspect your machines daily... I've seen and heard of to many Hightower type lathes that are locked/seized up...
Rob.M
