Gorman-Rupp Pumps T3A3S-B /F,/FM,/WW,/WWS - Manual (Page 19)

SUPER T SERIES OM-05140
OPERATION PAGE C - 4
Cold Weather Preservation
In below freezing conditions, drain the pump to
prevent damage from freezing. Also, clean out any
solids by flushing with a hose. Operate the pump
for approximately one minute; this will remove any
remaining liquid that could freeze the pump rotat­
ing parts. If the pump will be idle for more than a
few hours, or if it has been pumping liquids con­
taining a large amount of solids, drain the pump,
and flush it thoroughly with clean water. To prevent
large solids from clogging the drain port and pre­
venting the pump from completely draining, insert
a rod or stiff wire in the drain port, and agitate the
liquid during the draining process. Clean out any
remaining solids by flushing with a hose.
BEARING TEMPERATURE CHECK
Bearings normally run at higher than ambient tem­
peratures because of heat generated by friction.
Temperatures up to 160
_F (71_C) are considered
normal for bearings, and they can operate safely to
at least 180
_F (82_C).
Checking bearing temperatures by hand is inaccu­
rate. Bearing temperatures can be measured ac­
curately by placing a contact‐type thermometer
against the housing. Record this temperature for
future reference.
A sudden increase in bearing temperature is a
warning that the bearings are at the point of failing
to operate properly. Make certain that the bearing
lubricant is of the proper viscosity and at the cor­
rect level (see LUBRICATION in MAINTENANCE
AND REPAIR). Bearing overheating can also be
caused by shaft misalignment and/or excessive vi­
bration.
When pumps are first started, the bearings may
seem to run at temperatures above normal. Con­
tinued operation should bring the temperatures
down to normal levels.