Hi all,



I'm in the process of replacing the spindle bearings on my '45 Gorton 8D.
The spindle is set up with a pair of tapered bearings on the top of the
spindle and a pair of tapered bearings on the bottom of the spindle.



I've pulled the old bearings out and have purchased new equivalents; or as
close as I can get. They're class seven FAG units.



Anyhow, the manual for an 8 ½D (which is all I have) suggests a couple of
things that I'm not familiar with. I'm hoping to get some help from the
folks on this NG. The manual suggests that I should mark the relationship
between the spacer that is clamped between the upper and lower bearing pairs
on the spindle. I admit to spacing out when I pulled the thing apart and
didn't mark the spindle. Any idea why Gorton would suggest this? Balance
perhaps? Any idea of how to rectify this situation? The manual also
suggest pairing the "balance marks" on the bearings together. There are
some marks on the bearing races but I'm wondering if this is a requirement
for new bearings or if anyone has even heard of this. I would have expected
bearings to be in balance by their very nature.



My last question is regarding the lubrication of the bearings. I think they
are lubricated by light spindle oil from the oil cups (I need to trace the
oil path to make sure). Assuming that they are lubed by the oil cups,
should they also be packed with grease? My assumption is "no", but I'm
wondering if anyone has specific or even general info on lubrication of
spindles of this type or vintage. If they should be greased, what type of
grease should I use? The information provided by the manufacturer on
allowable bearing loads when packed with grease vs. lubed with oil suggests
that either will work fine given the loads and RPMs the mill will see.



Any suggestions, thoughts, or recommendations are appreciated.



Thanks,



Peter