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How to Change the Bearings of a Milling Machine

A mill that you have for use in your garage or workshop is a type of mini-lathe. The lathe uses bearings that turn with the rotation of a spindle. When the bearings on your machine become worn, you will need to replace them with a new part. To do this, you need to remove the spindle assembly from your lathe to access the location for the bearings.

Things You'll Need

Allen wrench
6-inch piece of wood
Hammer
Oil

Instructions

- 1
  Loosen the two screws that are used to secure the handwheel to the spindle with an Allen wrench. Back out the screws until they are flush with the outer wheel.
- 2
  Turn the handwheel until you can remove it from the spindle. Pull the wave washer that is on the end of the spindle.
- 3
  Reduce tension of the drive belt by adjusting the tension pulleys. Locate the set screw that is secured to the spindle pulley. Loosen the set screw with the Allen wrench.
- 4
  Tap on the end of the spindle with the hammer toward the tailstock. The spindle should come loose and be pulled out of the tailstock.
- 5
  Remove the outboard bearing by pulling it out. If the bearing does not come out easily, you can drive it out by tapping against it on a 6-inch piece of wood with the hammer.
- 6
  Lightly apply oil to the spindle and the two bearing seats. Set a new bearing into its correct bearing seat and slide it into position. The small bearing is for the outboard seat and the big bearing is for the inboard seat.

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