Maintenance Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

DieQua offers tips for installing, operating, and maintaining gearboxes. Below, we discuss common gearbox maintenance mistakes and how to avoid them. Specifically, our tips include both the error and the preventative measures in each of these scenarios so you can best learn how to maintain a gearbox.

Tip 7 – Correctly Mount Servo Gearhead

Mounting the gearhead horizontally is incorrect, as it allows for the increasing of some loads associated with lateral misalignment in this orientation, which shortens the life of the overall components. The correct way to mount a servo gearhead to a machine is by doing so vertically.

Tip 6 – Water In Gearbox

When water mixes with oil & grease, the lubricant breaks down. Protect the shaft seal during the washdown process.

Tip 5 – Running with no lubrication

Avoid catastrophic failure by maintaining lubrication. It is recommended to change oil every 3,000 hours.

Tip 4 – Component Connection

Lubrication can break down on the bronze gear wheel and wear out the softer ring gear.
Check Component Connections for Possible Breakdown or Premature Internal Failure.

Tip 3 – Oil Burning in Gearbox

Extreme operating temperatures can cause oil to burn, causing deterioration of teeth and bearings. To prevent gearhead deterioration, perform an oil analysis of the level and operating temperature, change the oil every 3,000 hours.

Tip 2 – Debris in Gearbox seals

Debris can cause seal damage and leakage. Protect the shaft from debris & corrosion that will eventually cause seal leakage.

Tip 1 – Painting Gearboxes

Painted seals can cause hardening, which allows for them to wear a groove in the shaft, creating a leak. Mask and cover the seals before painting.