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DIY Turntable Bearings

Turntables require axial bearings to rotate freely. In essence, bearings are two plastic or metal circles sized to fit together, one inside the other. One of these bearings is fixed to a solid mass located on one side the unit, while the other side is fixed to a solid mass on the other side. An axial bearing is one where weights are applied parallel to the spin axis. For example, consider a Lazy Susan turntable found on kitchen tables or in kitchen cabinets. Though loaded with spice jars or other food items the plate spins freely. In addition to prefabricated components, bearings are available as individual pieces. Assembling piecemeal bearings offers more options for sizing and functionality.

Things You'll Need

Large axial bearing
Small axial bearing
Greased ball bearings
Screws and screwdriver
Turntable surface wheel
Turntable base

Instructions

- 1
  Place the small axial bearing on a solid surface so its central axis points from the floor to the ceiling. A groove surrounds the axial bearing's outer edge, forming a trench or lip. Place greased ball bearings into this groove. The total number of ball bearings will depend upon the axial bearing's diameter. There should be enough to fill the groove and thus keep the small axial bearing's rotation shaft from rubbing against any part of the large axial bearing; however, the ball bearings should not be packed to affect actual movement.
- 2
  Hold the large axial bearing so its rotational axis points between the floor and ceiling. Turn the large axial bearing so the ball bearing groove points toward the small axial bearing. Slide the large bearing over the small bearing until they are snug together. Test rotation by turning the large bearing.
- 3
  Use the screwdriver to screw the smaller axial bearing to the turntable's base. Use the screwdriver to screw the large axial bearing to the turntable surface wheel's underside. Place the base on the solid surface. Test the turntable's newly assembled bearing by spinning the surface wheel.

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