Automatic oiler problem?

[jerry johnson]

I have had my CS45 for about six months and just recently we got the automatic oiling system to work correctly. Here are some things we found: Tha glass bowl mounted to the Z axis must be perfectly level to properly distribute oil to all of the tubes. Also, we had to play with the manifold that is mounted to the back of the gantry to get even oil distribution. It is now not level but that is where it works correctly for us.

My suggestion is that you who have this system check your oil points for propper oiling. What we were experiencing in the beginning is over oiling in some places and under oiling in others.

Happy New Year!

[Rob Davis]

Jerry, thanks for the reminder to check this system.

Others, what oil do you use inthe system? regular light weight air tool oil?

[Pete Riddle]

You will want to use an sae 5 oil for your auto lube system. Typically, airtool oil is close to that yes.

[Chris Robinson]

Should the manifold be empty? I periodically check to insure that my auto oilers are dripping at about 15 drips/minute. But the clear manifold is always dry on the inside. I know it's supposed to mist but the lines have always looked clear/empty. The rails have a very, very light residue on them but this had gotten me to wondering if I'm getting consisten, even lubing. I have re-read the manual and it's very sketchy at best and doesn't address the manifold other than in reference to checking the lines.

What is the proper procedure for checking the autolube system and manifold for even distribution?

thanks,
Chris Robinson
The Cabinet Connection
Wytheville, VA 24382

[Pete Riddle]

Should the manifold be empty? I periodically check to insure that my auto oilers are dripping at about 15 drips/minute. But the clear manifold is always dry on the inside. I know it's supposed to mist but the lines have always looked clear/empty. The rails have a very, very light residue on them but this had gotten me to wondering if I'm getting consisten, even lubing. I have re-read the manual and it's very sketchy at best and doesn't address the manifold other than in reference to checking the lines.

What is the proper procedure for checking the autolube system and manifold for even distribution?

thanks,
Chris Robinson
The Cabinet Connection
Wytheville, VA 24382

Chris,

Yes the manifold should be empty. It serves as a distribution chamber for the particulated oil. The best way to ensure flow is to remove each oil line at the bearing and make sure you still have airflow through it. The oiling system is not design to deluge the bearings and rails, so the evidence of residue at the location is a good indicator that you are getting lubricant to the bearing. You should periodically check to make sure the wipers are not torn. This might allow excess debri into the bearings decreasing their life, it could also allow debri to plug up the lubrication channel in the beraing itself. So even though the autolube system is functioning properly, you may not be getting the oil to the bearing. I believe your service manual recommends cleaning each bearing once a year and inspecting them at that time.

If you have more questions feel free to contact our Service Dept. here at Thermwood. Someone there will be happy to help you.

Thanks,

[Jason McDaniel]

Hello Chris,

Yes, the manifold will be empty. A light residue on the rails is what you are looking for. I would check to see if you have any dry rails. You can also turn the oilers up so that they drip faster. The rails should then have a heavier amount of oil on them and maybe you can see if one rail seems to be getting less oil than the others. Also, I have seen airlines that seem to be clear and I have seen some that turn yellow. From my experience it seems to be caused simply by the type or brand of oil used. I wouldn't be concerned as long as you can feel oil on the rails. If you have any questions please call our service department at 1-800-221-3865.