I have a Myford Mystro lathe with non-sealed bearings. It has run fine
for over 10 years, and I have added the provided lubricating grease at
what seemed 'reasonable' intervals. I do not run it every day...but
it gets heavy use at times.
For the last year or so, it has seemed that the headstock is not
running as smoothly, although it is hard to see daily change.
Lately, it has begun shutting down under strain, as if overheated,
then restarting after a little rest. The manual says nothing about
this, as it only discusses adding some occasional lubrication.
Could it be that the bearings are OVER packed, and that excessive
grease is binding the rotation?
Access to the bearings is not covered in the manual, but changing
the short drive belt involves partial disassembly of the shaft in
order to slip the new belt in.
I am not sure if this process, extended a bit, gives access TO the
bearings so I can tell if there's a problem.

So...I am just wondering if anyone has any experience, good guesses,
or absolute NOs about what I should try or not try?

Thanks in advance for any ideas.
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remove nonsense for reply