Catastrophic bearing failure was the main cause of this spindle malfunction Continue reading to learn how Northland Tool performed this repair and converted a Weiss GHK 176239 spindle from grease-injected to permanent grease lubrication……
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Heald 5-5A-OM Spindle Repair
The Heald 5-5A-OM spindle is off of a grinding machine. It is oil mist lubricated, pulley driven, and capable of running up to 25,000 rpm.
CHALLENGE
This Heald 5-5A-OM spindle arrived at Northland Tool and Electronics and the first thing we noted was that the spindle bearings felt rough when rotated by hand in assembly. After breakdown and evaluation, we found that all the bearings contained slight contamination and felt worn when rotated by hand. We then measured the critical dimensions (bearing journals, housing, taper, etc.) and found a couple issues. First, the 25mm front bearing journal was worn undersized -12/-12µm (ISO = ±3µm). Second, the 25mm rear bearing journal was worn undersized -18/-18µm (ISO = ±3µm). No other significant dimensional deviations were noted (wheel hub/pulley tapers, housing bores.)
SOLUTION
The following actions were performed on this Heald 5-5A-OM spindle:
- Clean, inspect overall dimensions
- Grind, chrome plate, and finish grind the 25mm front and rear bearing journals
- Replace all bearings, cork gasket, and assembly screws
RESULT
After reassembly of all components, adjusting bearing preload, and undergoing break-in and testing procedures, this spindle passed our final quality inspection before being returned to our customer with a 1-year warranty.
DETAILED CAUSE OF FAILURE
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Repair History - Here are examples of similar spindle repairs that may contain additional information that will help you. If you have additional questions, please contact us.


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