What is the best way to lube this thing?

[paulkiecka]

I know I need to take care of this machine and am sure I'll be needing to replace the rack and pinion gears soon. Before I do, I would like to learn how to take care of this thing so a brand new set doesn't get trashed. Presently when I do get around to trying to lube my ShopBot (PRT) I get out the grease gun and use some lithium grease on it. I generally get more grease on me than the machine (not very mechanically inclined that way) Anyway, do any of you have tips or tricks on what I should do? Anyone want to post a video?

[myxpykalix]

I went to the dollar store and bought a pack of 6 toothbrushes for a dollar and use them to get into the teeth of the rack and pinion and I too make a mess....

[scottbot]

I read a post a while back where one of the other guys said he was using motorcycle chain lube on his gears. I've been using it ever since.

It's way easier to apply and it's white! It comes in an aerosol can with one of those little plastic tubes that can be bent upwards so you hardly even have to bend over to lube the gears. I figure that if the chain lube can protect my motorcycle chain and sprockets at the torque and speeds that
they are subjected to then it will work for the Bot.

Unfortunately, when the Bot was new I lubed the gears with the black grease that came with it and because of that, I've got quite a few tee shirts with black teeth marks across the front.

When you get your new gear set you can start off using the chain lube and save a lot of tee shirts!

My 2 cents worth.

Cheers,
Scott

[paulkiecka]

Scott,

My big belly and I thank you for the tip - the less time I have to spend bending over/getting low the better.


Paul

[scottbot]

Glad to help Paul.
I think you'll find it a much better solution.

Scott