Grease or oil for horizontal milling knee thrust bearing

[AlexyL]

Hi guys, not sure if I'm posting this in the right section. I bought a Iwashita nk-65 horizontal mill (cant find any info on it and the company doesn't have any left over documents and cant help me) and was wondering what you would recommend for lubrication for the flat thrust bearing that is in the knee? It doesn't seem to have an easy way to oil it but its still filthy so maybe ill find something tomorrow once its cleaner. I can add some pictures if it helps.

Thanks

 

[hvnlymachining]

I don't know that brand let alone model, but It's a high pressure point with small relative surface area, grease definitely would be best. But remember grease collects dust and chips so grease often or it will wear faster than if it was left dry. Oil if it's difficult to grease, any lube is better than none.

 

[Bill D]

Will cutting oil or coolant run down and wash off any oil or grease? Needs to be cleaned and lubed often to keep swarf out.
Bill D

 

[AlexyL]

I don't know that brand let alone model, but It's a high pressure point with small relative surface area, grease definitely would be best. But remember grease collects dust and chips so grease often or it will wear faster than if it was left dry. Oil if it's difficult to grease, any lube is better than none.

Since its inside the knee it’s pretty well covered but yes I will keep an eye on it and keep it greased.

Thank you

 

[AlexyL]

Will cutting oil or coolant run down and wash off any oil or grease? Needs to be cleaned and lubed often to keep swarf out.
Bill D

I don’t think so since its inside the knee. There’s way covers so it should see minimal swarf. I will keep an eye on it tho.

Cheers

 

[jbacc]

I’d be reluctant to use grease for the reasons already mentioned, and if it were me, I’d use oil. A light way oil would be my choice.

 

[AlexyL]

I’d be reluctant to use grease for the reasons already mentioned, and if it were me, I’d use oil. A light way oil would be my choice.

I used grease since i had to continue getting her up together but if i will keep and eye on it and if i see swarf getting on therer i will clean it up and use way oil.

Thanks

 

[AlexyL]

I don't know that brand let alone model, but It's a high pressure point with small relative surface area, grease definitely would be best. But remember grease collects dust and chips so grease often or it will wear faster than if it was left dry. Oil if it's difficult to grease, any lube is better than none.

Here’s what it looks like to give you an idea.


I got the horizontal attachment and the shaft for it with it. Paid 1500$.
Cheers

 

[Bill D]

If swarf becomes a problem ask yourself how often do you lower the knee all the way down. If seldom make a little split hat or umbrella clamped onto the shaft to deflect junk away from the bearing.
I have no idea if the geometry will really allow this or not.
I did something similar on my wood planer using a car CV joint split replacement boot. For the rpm's involved make you own from rubber and a hose clamp.
Bill D

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[AlexyL]

If swarf becomes a problem ask yourself how often do you lower the knee all the way down. If seldom make a little split hat or umbrella clamped onto the shaft to deflect junk away from the bearing.
I have no idea if the geometry will really allow this or not.
I did something similar on my wood planer using a car CV joint split replacement boot. For the rpm's involved make you own from rubber and a hose clamp.
Bill D

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The VW Swing Axle Boot Kit you need plus free tech help from true VW experts. Same day shipping. Order on-line or call today!

www.partsplaceinc.com

I really like that idea. Will definitely do it if it if needed.

Thank you.

 

[wood2steel]

I used grease since i had to continue getting her up together but if i will keep and eye on it and if i see swarf getting on therer i will clean it up and use way oil.

Thanks

Way covers and a vacuum cleaner as opposed to air nozzle usage for clearing chips from machine will go a long way at protecting that hidden thrust bearing.