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In general very little maintenance of the Thruster is required.
There are two grease nipples which supply grease to the raise / lower
mechanism. One is located on the top plate, and one is on the main Thruster
body. Apply 3 or 4 pumps from a grease gun every four to six months dependant
on the Thruster usage, to ensure trouble free operation.
When applying grease to the Thruster main body grease nipple, first remove the
exit plug located on the opposite side to the grease nipple, this will ensure that no
pressure is generated in the Thruster main body, which would cause the Thruster
to stick. Once sufficient grease has been applied, re-fit the exit plug.
Lightly greasing the lead screw at the same time interval, will enhance operation.
(Hydraulic system)
The hydraulic oil will normally last for many years, but it is advisable to replace
the filter element annually. The filter is fitted with a pressure gauge which
indicates the level of contamination within the element. If the reading starts to
rise above the normal level, it means that the filter element is becoming clogged
and must be replaced. Hydraulic oil will break down over a period of time
irrespective of usage, and therefore should be replaced every two years.
The oil in the gearbox ( hub ) of the unit should be changed annually. There is
both a filler and a drain provided for this purpose. It is important to wrap two or
three turns of PTFE tape around the plugs before refitting them. The plugs have
a tapered thread and therefore care should be taken in order to avoid cross
threading them when refitting. The oil level should be filled to the level of the fill
hole with one of the following oils or an equivalent
( approximately 150 ml ).
CASTROL
MOBILUBE
SHELL SPIRAX
MAINTENANCE
EPX 80W / 90
HD
80W / 90
HD
80W / 90
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