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How to Stop a Windmill From Squeaking

A squeaking windmill is a sure sign that two or more parts are rubbing together. The sound is annoying, but it also means that the windmill is not working at maximum efficiency. An improperly operating windmill reduces the value of your investment, and might send stresses through the structure that lead to damage or collapse.

Things You'll Need

Silicone spray
Degreaser
Spanner
Vice

Instructions

- 1
  Diagnose where the squeak is coming from. Listen carefully to all the parts. Try to determine whether the squeak is coming from the base or from the windmill mechanism.
- 2
  Treat squeaks in the base by tightening all bolts or connecting joints, replacing buckled struts and reinforcing the windmill's footings with additional weights or concrete.
- 3
  Check for rubbing of the axle or brake disk. Loosen and realign the brake pad to prevent further rubbing. Check for deformation of the axle or disk. Remove these parts and try to bend them straight. This is tricky, and the parts might require replacements.
- 4
  Lubricate all the parts in the windmill mechanism with silicone lubricant spray. Some windmills features a case of ball bearings that surround the axle. Open this case; wash and degrease all the bearings. Replace any cracked bearings. Allow the bearings to dry, and then lubricate them and reassemble the case.
- 5
  Check the gear box. Different windmills feature different shapes, types and styles of gears. Search for a basic misalignment. Alter the tension in the gears, or move the gears left or right to realign them.

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