Myford ML8 Headstock bearing adjustment

okeydokey · 26 Apr 2016

I have a recently acquired cream colour ML8 and have been sorting it out over the last couple of weeks. While fitting an outboard faceplate I noticed that the 2 grub screws on the spindle adjusting collar were loose. I've tightened them up but presumably there must be a correct way of making sure the bearing end float - if that's what the collar is for is for is adjusted correctly!
Is it just a question of slackening both screws and then turning the collar one way and the other until it feels right? ie trying to move the spindle left/right with the belt slackened to get minimal movement? Any ideas/does any one know how to do it or please point me to an online how to do it.
thanks folks.

robe_uk · 27 Apr 2016

hi, yes you're right about the collar for tightening the spindle in the bearings, I just tightened mine enough to take the slack out and didn't over do it, hopefully someone will be able to chime in with a procedure for exact amount but I think just past slack is enough and just check every now and again.

robe_uk · 27 Apr 2016

I pm'd a link to a manual for the ml8, couldn't link on post

okeydokey · 28 Apr 2016

Hi Got the link on pm ok and have replied thank you for your help what you say above seems about right

Normancb · 28 Apr 2016

The bearings are opposed taper roller bearings, lubricated through the two screw plugs on top. They need a few drops of light oil every time the lathe is used. Once they are lubricated, tighten the collar until the bearings start to drag, then back off a fraction of a turn till the spindle spins freely with no end float. Should only need doing once. If the bearings are worn they are pretty standard and can be replaced by a bearing supplier.