Shopsmith Forums

ceyoung77 wrote:I'm relatively certain that I've gotten everything lubricated according to the manual, but I was wondering what is the best way to keep the variable cam lubricated?

Thanks!

The original was nylon and required NO lubrication.

ceyoung77 wrote:I'm relatively certain that I've gotten everything lubricated according to the manual, but I was wondering what is the best way to keep the variable cam lubricated?

Thanks!

Keep the small bearing in the end of the control sheave lubricated. When that bearing fails the follower over heats and melts the cam.

rpd wrote:

ceyoung77 wrote:I'm relatively certain that I've gotten everything lubricated according to the manual, but I was wondering what is the best way to keep the variable cam lubricated?

Thanks!

Keep the small bearing in the end of the control sheave lubricated. When that bearing fails the follower over heats and melts the cam.

Good, however he has a metal cam, hence the question.

I simply do not have a definitive answer, but graphite comes to mind(any slick thing that does not like to merge with sawdust).

Okay, thank you. I will try the graphite. I tried 3 in 1 but it seemed to just run off.

I tried to find the post where I think someone mentioned using stick lubricant on the rip fence locks. I by chance got a box of junk from a tractor repair shop that had a stick in it. I finally found it again a couple weeks ago and tried on my Mark 7 fence. I was amazed at how well it worked. It might be worth trying it on a Mark VII with an aluminum cam.

https://www.performanceonline.com/ags-d ... gJixvD_BwE

I found the stick as a result of a Google search and have not bought anything from that particular site. EDIT: The shipping is about twice the cost of the product. It is also available from Amazon prime with free delivery.

This brings soap or paraffin(candle wax) to mind.