The Analog Dept.

-edible zone-

Taking it apart:

* (click thumbnail to view image full size)

_____________________________________________________________horizontal rule

Getting the bottom thrust bearing cap off:

method of attachment? This cap doesn't want to unscrew. From this point of view we can't even see if it has threads. But I suspect that it does.

As it turns out, these are right hand threaded parts installed with a thread sealant/thread locker. To remove: The motor casing was installed back into the chassis with the four fasteners. This was done to improve leverage for what was to come.....a strap wrench, used in conjunction with a heat gun to soften the thread sealant. Care was taken not to heat the coils on the other side of this housing! With moderate unwinding pressure the threaded cap broke free of its bond smoothly and was then unscrewed.

A considerable amount of thread locker / sealant residue was found on both pieces.

_______________________________________________________horizontal rule

Looking for evidence of wear:

(click thumbnail to view image full size)

The dimple in center indicates hard contact with the thrust bearing ball.

This one.

Looks like a straight thru bore.

Bearing ball diameter on display.

Gaging the bore for size at the thrust end using this small hole gage made by Starrett. I use this type when a dial bore gage, or air gage is not available.

It is a split ball design that makes a 2-point contact within the walls of the bore and that also depends upon the user to develop a "feel" for just the right amount of pressure to find correct size. But it is possible to be accurate with one of these.