[TowerTalk] grease for rotators Re: Yaesu Rotator Refurbish?

[K8RI on TT]

On 4/10/2011 5:44 PM, Jim Lux wrote:
> On 4/10/11 2:04 PM, Grant Saviers wrote:
>> I just rebuilt one of these.  Certainly the bearing races and balls need
>> cleaned and regreased.  A synthetic grease that is TFE loaded is what I
>> used - "Superlube" by Synco.  The rotator I rebuilt was stored outside
> The amount of grease you're using is tiny, so cost or selection isn't a
> big factor: use whatever you got.
>
> But, this is a pretty non-rigorous, very light load application..
> Probably any grease that's reasonably thick so it doesn't wash off would
> work.  and it doesn't get very hot.

Hot is a relative term.  Here in Central Michigan on a clear summer day 
metal/rotators can get way to hot to put your bare hand on one. IOW they 
get well above 50 C.  As he's in Texas with more direct sun I'd think 
temperature might be a consideration. Depending on conditions exposed 
metal can reach close to 100C or 212F.  Dark painted metal can reach 
close to 300F which can be a problem with solar installations.

White Lithium grease is effective and inexpensive as is standard wheel 
bearing grease although I think I'd stay away from grease with high 
fiber content.

73

Roger (K8RI)
>   It's not like it's a wheel bearing
> or the action for a semi-automatic gun.  You could probably lubricate it
> with suet or lard and it would work.  If you're in a place where it gets
> cold, that's probably the big factor.. making sure the grease doesn't
> harden up too much.
>
> I think the primary function of the lube in a rotator is making sure the
> races and balls don't rust:  after all, the "bearing" anti-friction
> function is done by the balls and races.
>
>
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