Southbend South Bend SB1027 - Manual (Page 52)

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For Machines Mfg. Since 8/09 Model SB1027 M A I N T E N A N C E
Adjusting Gibs
Gibs are tapered lengths of metal between two
dovetail sliding surfaces. Gibs control the gap
between these surfaces and how they slide past
one another. Correctly adjusting the gibs is
critical to producing good milling results.
Tight gibs make table movement more
accurate but stiff. Loose gibs make moving the
table sloppy but easier to do. The goal of gib
adjustment is to remove unnecessary sloppiness
without causing the ways to bind.
Gibs are adjusted with a screw on each end of
the gib, that move the tapered gib back-and-
forth to increase or decrease the friction pressure
between the sliding surfaces. The process of
properly adjusting the gibs requires trial-and-
error and patience.
DISCONNECT MILL FROM POWER BEFORE
ADJUSTING THE GIBS!
Make sure all table and knee locks are loose.
Then, loosen one gib adjustment screw and
tighten the other the same amount to move the
gib. Use the handwheel/crank to move table/
knee until you feel a slight drag in that path of
movement.
Refer to Figures 58–60 on the next page to
identify the locations of the table, saddle, and
knee gibs, and one of the two adjustment screws
for each.
Note: It will be necessary to remove small parts,
such as way wipers and covers, to access the gib
adjustment screws.
Machine Storage
To avoid rust problems or corrosion damage,
use the following information to protect your
investment when storing the mill for any length
of time.
• DISCONNECT MILL FROM POWER!
• Lubricate the mill as directed in the
Lubrication section beginning on Page 43.
• Clean out the coolant reservoir in the base
of the mill as directed in the Changing
Coolant section on Page 49.
• Thoroughly clean all unpainted, bare metal
surfaces, then coat them with a light weight
grease or rust preventative. Take care to
ensure these surfaces are completely covered
but that the grease or rust preventative is
kept off painted surfaces.
Note: If the machine will be out of service for
only a short period of time, use way oil or a
good grade of medium-weight machine oil
(not auto engine oil) in place of the grease or
rust preventative.
• Loosen the belts to prevent them from
stretching during storage. Post a reminder
on the mill that the belts need to be re-
installed or tensioned before resuming
operations.
• Place a few moisture absorbing desiccant
packs inside the electrical and control panel
boxes.
• Cover and place the machine in a dry area
that is out of direct sunlight and away from
hazardous fumes, paint, solvents, or gas.
Fumes and sunlight can bleach or discolor
paint and plastic parts.
• At least once a month, start the mill and
run all gear-driven components for a few
minutes. This will keep the bearings,
bushings, gears, and shafts well lubricated
and protected from corrosion, especially
during the winter months.