Clean Bearings on Aluminum Pulleys?
08-20-21, 04:00 PM
#1
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Clean Bearings on Aluminum Pulleys?
Are aluminum pulleys serviceable? One of these is spinning free, and the other one is so tight as to be unuseable.
I don't see a way to access or lubricate
the inside.
I don't see a way to access or lubricate
the inside.
08-20-21, 04:22 PM
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The yellow dust caps should be able to come off. They may take a bit of prying with a sharp item like an x-acto blade, but once off the bearing assembly should be exposed. The assembly can be washed out with mineral spirits or as I use a brake cleaner from 3M that is about $10 per can. Wash the assembly, and re-lubricate with a lightweight grease. HTH, MH
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08-20-21, 07:54 PM
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Pulley on the left showing fair amount of wear - any idea how many miles or years its been in use? Won't last forever but could last as long as you need it to.
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08-20-21, 08:05 PM
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If its a pressed in cartridge just replace the bearings and don't bother with cleaning and lube, if its bad enough to not spin there's damage in there that will still slow you down needlessly.
08-21-21, 05:30 PM
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Cartridge bearings are usually removable. Do you have a bearing shop in your town?
08-21-21, 05:35 PM
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The cartridges I've seen are paper thin. Probably replaceable like mentioned above, but it may not be something that is common. But, an internet search is your friend.
Of course, the last time I bought bearings, I had to buy a whole bag full to pad the order to $50.
Of course, the last time I bought bearings, I had to buy a whole bag full to pad the order to $50.
