Chapter 4: Maintenance
68 M47-17027-EN
Recommended procedure
1. For 600DX frames: Start the system; see page 37. Completely lower the adjustable crosshead.
2. Be sure the system is shut down.
3. Remove covers from the base of the frame to expose the components, see the following:
• For 300DX frames: Remove the rear cover (see “Remove and install base covers” on
page 64). See Figure 15 for location of components.
• For 600DX frames: Remove the rear cover and then remove both side covers (see “Remove
and install base covers” on page 64). See Figure 15 for location of components.
4. Lubricate the backlash eliminator assemblies:
a. Clean the grease fitting of each backlash eliminator assembly of any dust or debris.
b. Connect the fitting of the grease gun to one of the grease fittings.
c. Apply grease until grease is forced out around the backlash eliminator assembly.
d. Remove the grease gun fitting.
e. Remove any excess grease.
f. Repeat steps b through e as necessary for remaining backlash eliminator assembly.
5. Lubricate the screw columns:
a. Clean any dust, dirt or debris that may be present on the exposed threads. If the grease has
dried to a paste, the old grease should be removed using solvent or diesel fuel before applying
new grease. Use caution to prevent solvent from contacting painted surfaces or skin. Also use
cautionary measures, such as placing towels around the top of the backlash eliminator
assembly, to minimize the amount of solvent that gets into the backlash eliminator assembly.
For 600DX frames, clean both screw columns.
b. Use a paint brush to paint the grease onto all exposed screw column threads. Be sure to grease
thoroughly. For 600DX frames, grease both screw columns.
c. Remove yourself and any equipment from the frame. In particular, remove any towels from
around the screw columns.
Crosshead Drive Chain • Petroleum based oil (motor oil) SAE30
• Roller Chain Lubricant
Note: Use only petroleum based oils, such as good quality motor oil, with a viscosity
equivalent to SAE30 or specifically petroleum based roller chain lubricants. Do not
use penetrating lubricants, such as WD-40, to lubricate or clean the chain.
1. Can be purchased from Instron. See Table 18 on page 90 for part numbers.
Table 15. Recommended lubricants for adjustable crosshead components.
Location Recommended Lubricant
For 300DX frames, it will be easier to reach the grease fitting of the backlash eliminator if the adjustable
crosshead is at the top of its travel.
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