If the thrust bearing was new when you installed it and it is functioning
normally, no maintenance should be necessary. However, if you obtained the
bearing used it may need some work.
I have come across lots of thrust bearings over the years and they have been
"maintained" to death. Unfortunately, although these bearings do not
require any lubricant to be added because of the low RPM, lots of guys do use
various lubricants. The result can be a gummy, sticky mess that actually
retards
rotation.
Fortunately, the fix for this is easy. Spray degreaser into the slit where
the bearing are, and flush all this crud out.
There is one other thing you might want to do. While you have access to the
bearing, check the set bolts that tighten around the mast. If you haven't
already done so, be sure to put grease or NoAlox into the thread sleeve of the
opening and then reinsert the bolts. These bolts tend to seize up and can
be impossible to remove as oxidation takes place. I suggest using stainless
steel bolts with the grease. It works for me.
Bill K4XS
_______________________________________________
See: http://www.mscomputer.com for "Self Supporting Towers", "Wireless Weather
Stations", and lot's more. Call Toll Free, 1-800-333-9041 with any questions
and ask for Sherman, W2FLA.
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