Oil for pillow block bearings

I have some self lubricating pillow block bearings. I have got some dirt on them, sawdust, bits of metal. I have cleaned them as much as I can with a cloth.

In case some dirt has got in to the bearings is there any oil I can use to flush out the bearings?

Also, this is probably a silly question, but do I need to lubicrate the bearings as they are self-lubicrating?

I haven't used the bearings yet.

David

David,

The original 'Oilite' bearings were [and presumably are] pre-filled with oil.

... I can't comment on any 'clones'

If they dry out, I believe the technique is to stand them end-on in a puddle of oil, letting capillary action do the work.

MichaelG.

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Edit: Try here for some proper information 

Edited By Michael Gilligan on 30/03/2016 19:50:20

I may be wrong but I don't think 'self lube' in the pillow block context has anything to do with Oilite. They're just well sealed ball bearings, pre-greased. Exhibit A confirms and Exhibit B suggests 'Self-Lube' is an NSK/RHP brand name.

Basically you're fine - they're well sealed so some dirt will make no odds. Just use them until they eventually go rough, then buy a new insert e.g. here as they can be bought (in standard sizes) separately from the pillow block housings.

Edited By Bikepete on 30/03/2016 23:35:15

It could be so, Bikepete ... I'm sure that David can clarify.

I have some vintage Picador units that have Oilite bushes in them [which is what I always took to be 'self-lubricating'] ... The others I would refer to as 'Sealed for Life' [but language changes]

MichaelG.

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Edit: a Google search for 'self lubricating beaings' returns many hits for the Oilite style.

Edited By Michael Gilligan on 30/03/2016 23:51:39

Depends some of the older pillow blocks have grease nipples and need grease not oil. Be careful what you use though as some grease can stiffen the rotation

They generally use grease just like any other prelube / sealed for life bearing that uses balls or rollers does. If anyone does make them with plain bearings things could be as Michael suggests but could also be greased and sealed.

If I was the OP I would follow don't fix it unless it's broke. They are usually well sealed and if the seal has perished, been prised off and damaged etc it's time for some new ones. Same if they feel a bit rough when rotated.

The bearing insert od's in them are often spherical to take care of shaft alignment so they generally last a long time but changing inserts may prove difficult.

Forgot to mention that they may develop end float in the bearings, That can mean replacing them as well.

John

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Edited By Ajohnw on 03/04/2016 11:31:07