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.
- posted
20 years ago