Chapter 8 — Inspection and Maintenance
8-18 Part No. 750-184
Lubricating Oil Strainer and Cooling Coil
Air pressure from the pump forces lubricating oil from the tank through a
cooling tube to the pump. The oil lubricates the pump bearings and also
provides a seal and lubrication for the pump vanes.
The cooled oil flows to the pump through the strainer in the filler pipe. It is
possible to visually verify oil flow during operation by removing the filler cap
and checking the flow. If necessary, the strainer may be cleaned during
operation.
In the event it is necessary to clean the strainer during operation, clean it
and replace immediately. It can be cleaned by immersing in solvent and
blowing it dry with compressed air. Do not operate without the strainer any
longer than necessary, and never add new oil unless it is in place. A spare
strainer basket can be obtained, if desired, and used on a rotating basis
while the other is serviced.
Air Cleaner
Never operate the air pump without the air cleaner in place. The cleaner
itself must be periodically checked and its element flushed and cleaned
semi-annually.
Air-Oil Tank
Pads of steel wool are used in the air to oil tank as a filtering medium to
separate the lube oil from the compressed air. The pads play a very
important role and should be replaced semi-annually. It is also important
that a proper grade of steel wool be used. Only No. 3 coarse grade American
steel wool or equal (CB919-124) should be used. Three pads are required.
When replacing the wool, insert two pads into the cylinder. Alternate the
grain of the pads. Install the spacer with its stub end toward the opening and
fit one pad over the stub. Be careful not to overly compress the wool and be
sure that it is fluffed out to fill all available space. Improper packing can
cause high oil consumption. After the last pad is in place, slip the retainer
screen onto the cylinder. Be sure to fit an O-ring gasket under the cover so
that a tight seal is obtained.
Follow previous instructions for oil replacement.
Lube Oil Cooling Coil
The fins on the tubing must be kept clean and free of any dust or dirt that
would resist air flow and cause overheating. Use an air hose to blow away
debris. Internal cleaning of the tubes is seldom required if a good quality
lube oil is used.
Flexible Coupling Alignment
Alignment of the pump and motor through the flexible coupling is extremely
important for trouble-free operation. Check the coupling alignment semi-
annually and replace the coupling insert as required. Keep the coupling
guard in place.
The most commonly used tools for checking alignment are a small
straightedge and a thickness gauge.