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Trackball question, rusty bearings ?
spystyle:
So I suppose we should soak new bearings in some kind of degreaser and then lubricate them with some kind of oil?
RandyT:
--- Quote from: spystyle on January 21, 2010, 12:44:26 pm ---So I suppose we should soak new bearings in some kind of degreaser and then lubricate them with some kind of oil?
--- End quote ---
Yes. We actually use ultrasonics to break it up with heated solvent and then use a vacuum chamber to pull the lubricant back into the bearings. They don't call them "sealed bearings" for nothing, and it's not always easy to get that heavy goop out of there. It can be done without all of the fancy stuff, but plan to spend a little time with them.
RandyT
tightwad:
If you buy the non "zz" version (2rs for instance) the side covers to the bearings are removable, and you can remove the heavier grease for a light oil.
"The R4-2RS and R4-ZZ is a 1/4 ball bearing that is found in many applications. The R4-2RS ball bearing has two contact rubber seals one on each side of the ball bearing. The R4-ZZ ball bearing has two non-contact metal shields one on each side of the ball bearing. If your application requires a R4 ball bearing with only one seal or shield you can get this ball bearing and take one of the shields or seals off. This 1/4 inch ball bearing is high quality and can take electric motor demands if needed. "
Xiaou2:
You can use Radio Shacks "Component Cleaner", to remove the grease inside
a bearing. Its a little expensive, at $10 for a small can, but you wont need
much... and the stuff is great for many things.
You simply spray some on top of the bearing... Let it seep inside. After a few
secs, start to spin it slowly with your finger... and gradually go faster. Keep
spinning for about 60 seconds.
Repeat on the other side. Then flip it back over, and repeat each side again.
After 2 rounds, it should have removed the grease well enough to spin
forever. If not... repeat the process a few more times.
It may also be called "Electronics Cleaner". Its a small white can, about 5" tall,
1.5" diameter. Ive tried other such cleaners, and none are as good as the
RS brand. The stuff is crystal clear, eats anything - then evaporates without
leaving a messy residue.
---
I will add, that any bearings with more than a tiny bit of rust probably are not
worth trying to save. If the balls or roller surface gets pitted, the bearings
will not roll smoothly. Also, the tolerances are very tight... If they change,
the balls will be too loose, and also cause rolling problems. Not to mention,
its one thing to soften and remove bearing grease from seeping in/out... but
quite another to try to remove large particles without removing the bearing
cover. Trapped particles of rust and steel will result in a bumpy roll, and or will
lock up the bearing at times.
spystyle:
Thanks for the replies fellas :)