Way oil for DoAll 6x18 Manual Feed

[sierevello]

Any suggestions on a way oil for my manual Doall 6x18? I have thought about Mobil DTE24 and also Vacuoline 1405. If you have any input please let me know. I thought tackifiers in Vacuoline 1405 might cause some stickiness.

Thanks, Steve

[spro]

Yes. Not all sizes of lathes require way oil. It comes to the pressure mass of the saddle, size of ways. If it seems too sticky, then it probably is.

[wlw-19958]

Hi There,

Does the manual have a specification for lubrication?

Good Luck!
-Blue Chips-
Webb

[RMinMN]

Any oil is better than no oil. There may be a best oil for you lathe ways and it might be specified in an owners manual. Using nothing but the right oil will ensure longevity of the ways in hard use for industry. if you are a hobbyist, you lathe probably won't be used all day, every day for years. You get to choose the lubrication that suits your use and expected lifetime wear that is acceptable.

[GlennW]

It's a surface grinder, not a lathe.

Why not Vactra #2?

[spro]

Guys. I blew that, thinking it was a rebadged lathe.

[sierevello]

Glenn,

Vactra #2 is ISO68 and seems to cause the table to "float" b/c of the viscosity causing some finish problems.

I was looking for an ISO32 oil to try to cut down on that issue. I could go to a Vactra #1 but it is hard to find in anything less than 5 Gallon pails. Best price I have found is $89 and $28 to ship.

Thanks,
Steve

[GlennW]

That sounds a bit odd.

Is it a rack and pinion drive table?

I'm able to buy Vacuoline 1409 in gallon quantity from Neuco Supply in Florida, but use it on my lathe only. You might talk to them

Grinders get Vactra #2.

[Mr Ron]

A local machine shop might sell you some or even give it to you free.

[sierevello]

Glenn,

Yes it is a rack and pinion drive table.

[GlennW]

Rack and pinion can sometimes print a pattern in the surface.