I'm currently trying to bring an old lathe back to life; it's an Ideal lathe, made in England around the 1920's -30's, 3 3/4" centre height 18" between centres. I'm trying to adjust (shim) the headstock bearings and it seems to be a good time to find out what to lubricate these with. The bearings are split-shell plain bronze (i.e. no white metal); a colleague has recommended Castrol Hyspin 68 oil, he uses this in our (considerably more modern) workshop machines. Castrol Hyspin is classed as a mineral hydraulic oil, does that seem the right lubricant for plain bearings of this type? Also, does a viscosity of 68 sound correct. Thanks in advance for any assistance rendered. Martin.
Lubricating oil recommendation for lathe
Oct 02, 2003
2 Replies
68 may be too heavy for split bronze headstock bearings. Probably fine for everything else. Basing this opinion on my experience with my SB 14 1/2 X 72. Headstock uses a LIGHT oil. If I use a heavier oil like hyd 68, the bearings heat up.
Bill
I would suggest what I run in most of my spindles, Mobil One, 0w30 grade.
Jim
================================================== please reply to: JRR(zero) at yktvmv (dot) vnet (dot) ibm (dot) com ==================================================
Join the Discussion
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Didn't find your answer?
Ask the community — no account required