Spindle bearing access

[njlwilliamson]

Does anyone know how to access the spindle bearings? I think they're fine but I've run my Novamill for about a year and I'd like to check them over. I've tried taking the cover off the head but it wouldn't budge. Is it one of those things where you have to use a lot of persuasion?

[Martin]

Take a look at these. The Novamill head is similar to the Starmiil.

viewtopic.php?f=45&t=3628


viewtopic.php?f=45&t=3632

[JohnHaine]

I'm surprised that the cover wouldn't come off, what is stopping it? Just unscrew 8 button head capscrews and it should lift off - I had mine off only yesterday. Once it's off bearing access is obvious. As far as I remember on mine the cover came straight off without needing any persuasion, but I suppose the paints might have stuck a bit. Try a gentle biff with a soft mallet?

[njlwilliamson]

Got it off. Thanks chaps. It did just need a tap with a mallet, it looked like it hasn't been off for a while!

[flyingmike]

Hi, They are quite chunky bearings on the spindle but easy to remove. You can see the lower one just by removing the cover plate located on the outside of the head.

I changed mine as I was getting a strange knocking noise. Cost about £80 for a pair of angular contact bearings from simplybearings. I think the original ones were ok though just not preloaded enough as the preloading nut (slotted nut) was not that tight.

Just remember to remove the key before trying to tap out the spindle like I didnt...ha

Mike