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PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
MAINTENANCE
DRIVE GEAR
after a short period of operation and adjusted, if necessary. When changing double-
reduction models, each housing should be drained and filled independently, even though
REDUCER
there could be a common level.
LUBRICATION
Initial oil change - The new oil in a speed reducer should be changed at the end of 250
hours of operation. This is equivalent to 30 days of operation for eight hours per day; 15
days of operation for 16 hours per day, or 10 days of operation for 24 hours per day.
Subsequent oil changes - Under normal conditions, after the initial oil change, the oil
should be changed after every 2500 hours of operation, or every six months, whichever
comes first. Under severe conditions (rapid temperature changes, moist, dirty, or corrosive
environment) it could be necessary to change the oil at intervals of one to three months.
Periodic examination of oil samples taken from the machine will help establish the
appropriate interval.
Synthetic oils - Synthetic lubricants can be advantageous over mineral oils in that they
generally are more stable, have a much longer life, and operate over a wider temperature
range. These oils are appropriate for any application but are especially useful when
machines are subjected to low start-up temperatures or high operating temperatures.
However, continuous operation above 225 °F may cause damage to seals or other
components. It is recommended that the initial oil be changed or filtered after the first 1500
hours of operation to remove metal particles that accumulate during break-in. Subsequent
oil changes should be made after 5000 hours operation if machines are operating in a
clean environment. This can be extended to 10,000 hours if using new reformulated Mobil
SHC lubricants (orange in color) and the lubricant remains free of contamination over this
period. See comments under "Subsequent oil changes" for discussion of severe ambient
conditions.
Long-term storage or infrequent operation - If a speed reducer is to stand idle for an
extended period of time, either before installation or during use, it is recommended that the
machine be filled completely with oil to protect interior parts from rust and corrosion due to
internal condensation. Be sure to drain the oil to the proper level before placing the speed
reducer in service.
Grease fittings - Some machines are equipped with grease fittings to lubricate bearings
not adequately lubricated by the oil splash. These fittings must be lubricated every three
to six months depending on operating conditions. Bearing greases must be compatible
with the type of gear lubricant being used (e.g. mineral, synthetic, food grade, etc.). For
mineral oils, use a high-quality lithium base NLGOI #2 bearing grease. For synthetic oils,
use a synthetic bearing grease such as Mobil Synthetic Universal grease, Mobilith SHC
100 or a suitable equivalent. For food-grade lubricants, use Chevron FM grease, NGLI 2,
or equivalent.
Low input speeds (under 1600 RPM) - When input speeds are less than 1600 RPM,
grease fittings will be required to lubricate any bearings not partially covered by the normal
oil level.
Oil temperature - Speed reducers in normal operation can generate temperatures up
to 200 °F depending on the type of reducer and the severity of the application (loading,
duration of service, ambient temperatures). Excessive oil temperatures could be the result
of several factors including overloading, overfilling, underfilling, or inadequate cooling.
07610-003-60-98-L
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