|
How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Thank you. Bill... Kindest regards Arthur Skickat från min iPhone
23 nov. 2019 kl. 14:52 skrev CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>:
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease. On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting. Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks. I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Pat,
The potential grease port location I spoke of may be easy to reach on one rack, but I am not sure about the other. See below.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 3:19 PM CW Bill Rouse via Groups.Io <brouse= gmail.com@groups.io> wrote: Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting. Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks. I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing.
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily
center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting.
Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks.
I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
| |
| |
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
| |
|
| |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Pat,
I do not think it is possible to "replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing."
Let me know how you fair on adding a grease port.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sun, Nov 24, 2019 at 8:07 AM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing.
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily
center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting.
Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks.
I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
| |
| |
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
| |
|
| |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Hi Pat,
I would suggest you do not attempt to add a grease fitting to the Racks. The steel racks take up almost all the room inside the black housing they are fitted into, and I’m not sure you can find a place to put the nipple. Even if you could, the grease is not going to circulate adequately around the racks. When I took my racks apart, they were still packed full of grease after 27 years. If you are losing a lot of grease from your racks, something is probably not right, and you should take them apart. If you are just losing very small amounts of grease, don’t worry, the racks are very full of grease.
Just my two cents worth, but having replaced my entire steering system (racks, pinion, and cables), I have a fairly good understanding of how it works.
Regards,
Steve Davis Aloha SM72 Ko Olina, Hawaii
On Nov 24, 2019, at 4:07 AM, Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32@...> wrote:
Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing.
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily
center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting.
Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks.
I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
| |
| |
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
| |
|
| |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
<image.png> <image.png> <image.png> <image.png>
|
|
|
For everyone having rack problems, they are cast aluminium on our SM. Little wear showing on mine.
Cheers
Jean-Pierre Germain. SY Eleuthera, SM 007
On 25/11/2019, at 3:07 AM, Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32@...> wrote:
Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing.
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily
center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting.
Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks.
I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
| |
| |
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
| |
|
| |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
<image.png> <image.png> <image.png> <image.png>
|
|
|
Steve, I have only over the years lost no more than a 1/4 of a cup if that. Based on what you describe there seems to be adequate lubrication to spare, and as much as I am not looking for any additional projects ,I think I will then put this one on the back burner.
Thanks for the insight,
Pat
SM#123
-----Original Message-----
From: Stephen Davis <flyboyscd@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sun, Nov 24, 2019 11:20 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Hi Pat,
I would suggest you do not attempt to add a grease fitting to the Racks. The steel racks take up almost all the room inside the black housing they are fitted into, and I’m not sure you can find a place to put the nipple. Even if you could, the grease is not going to circulate adequately around the racks. When I took my racks apart, they were still packed full of grease after 27 years. If you are losing a lot of grease from your racks, something is probably not right, and you should take them apart. If you are just losing very small amounts of grease, don’t worry, the racks are very full of grease.
Just my two cents worth, but having replaced my entire steering system (racks, pinion, and cables), I have a fairly good understanding of how it works.
Regards,
Steve Davis
Aloha SM72
Ko Olina, Hawaii
On Nov 24, 2019, at 4:07 AM, Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32@...> wrote:
Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing.
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily
center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting.
Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks.
I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
| |
| |
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
| |
|
| |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
<image.png>
<image.png>
<image.png>
<image.png>
|
|
|
Pat,
Steve would know better than any of us.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sun, Nov 24, 2019 at 10:20 AM Stephen Davis < flyboyscd@...> wrote: Hi Pat,
I would suggest you do not attempt to add a grease fitting to the Racks. The steel racks take up almost all the room inside the black housing they are fitted into, and I’m not sure you can find a place to put the nipple. Even if you could, the grease is not going to circulate adequately around the racks. When I took my racks apart, they were still packed full of grease after 27 years. If you are losing a lot of grease from your racks, something is probably not right, and you should take them apart. If you are just losing very small amounts of grease, don’t worry, the racks are very full of grease.
Just my two cents worth, but having replaced my entire steering system (racks, pinion, and cables), I have a fairly good understanding of how it works.
Regards,
Steve Davis Aloha SM72 Ko Olina, Hawaii On Nov 24, 2019, at 4:07 AM, Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32=aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing.
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily
center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting.
Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks.
I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
| |
| |
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
| |
|
| |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
<image.png> <image.png> <image.png> <image.png>
|
|
|
eric freedman <kimberlite@...>
The photo of the damaged rack was one from Kimberlite. When I took the racks apart they were loaded with grease. I do not believe the damage was caused by a lack of grease. I believe it was just wear and tear on the racks. Fortunately I had a spare set on board . The rotary drive presents a sort of jerky motion to the steering assembly. While the linear drive is much smoother. I believe that is the reason for the failure. When I was in Martinique I had Amel check the steering and they said it was fine. The problem presented itself with a small thunk sound at one position of the wheel. It was only when the rotary pilot was working. This is the second time I have replaced the racks. Fair Winds Eric Amel Super Maramu #376
From: main@AmelYachtOwners.groups.io [mailto:main@AmelYachtOwners.groups.io] On Behalf Of CW Bill Rouse
Sent: Sunday, November 24, 2019 3:26 PM
To: main@amelyachtowners.groups.io
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables Steve would know better than any of us.
--
| CW Bill Rouse Amel Owners Yacht School | | | Address: 720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550 | |
| | |
On Sun, Nov 24, 2019 at 10:20 AM Stephen Davis <flyboyscd@...> wrote: I would suggest you do not attempt to add a grease fitting to the Racks. The steel racks take up almost all the room inside the black housing they are fitted into, and I’m not sure you can find a place to put the nipple. Even if you could, the grease is not going to circulate adequately around the racks. When I took my racks apart, they were still packed full of grease after 27 years. If you are losing a lot of grease from your racks, something is probably not right, and you should take them apart. If you are just losing very small amounts of grease, don’t worry, the racks are very full of grease. Just my two cents worth, but having replaced my entire steering system (racks, pinion, and cables), I have a fairly good understanding of how it works.
On Nov 24, 2019, at 4:07 AM, Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32=aol.com@groups.io> wrote: Bill , I may go ahead and try to add a nipple,if as you said the wall is too thin to tap , I will seal it by other means. I will in the future tie the wheel off center to spread the wear as per another owners suggestion a week or so back,a good idea. If the rack is steel, do you think it possible to replace the worn metal through welding in new material and then fashioning new teeth by filing. SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 4:19 pm
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed. I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing. Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored. Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below: One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting. Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks. I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted. I know there are a few owners who can answer this question. We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
| CW Bill Rouse Amel Owners Yacht School | | | Address: 720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550 | |
| | |
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32=aol.com@groups.io> wrote: Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit . SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...>
To: main <main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables The cables are sealed. The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease. On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist <arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Hi there I thought it would be interesting to note that on the mid 80s Maramus with morse 401 commander rack and pinion steering system each rack has a grease nipple so this sounds like a good idea as an upgrade for the ultraflex system imo.
All the best Miles Maramu 162
On 23 Nov 2019, at 21:32, CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...> wrote:
Pat,
The potential grease port location I spoke of may be easy to reach on one rack, but I am not sure about the other. See below.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 3:19 PM CW Bill Rouse via Groups.Io <brouse= gmail.com@groups.io> wrote: Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting. Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks. I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Miles,
If you look carefully on the back of the top rack I think that you will find that your boat actually has two grease nipples on the steering system, or at least mine does. I missed the second one myself on the first grease run. I can tell that grease is getting on to the racks since it changes the sound and the feel slightly. While it is certainly easy to pump some fresh grease in I am thinking that it would be a good idea for me to take everything apart and clean out any abrasive material that might be in the old grease. Fingers crossed that everything looks good!
Best,
James Maramu #220
Hi there I thought it would be interesting to note that on the mid 80s Maramus with morse 401 commander rack and pinion steering system each rack has a grease nipple so this sounds like a good idea as an upgrade for the ultraflex system imo.
All the best Miles Maramu 162 On 23 Nov 2019, at 21:32, CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...> wrote:
Pat,
The potential grease port location I spoke of may be easy to reach on one rack, but I am not sure about the other. See below.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 3:19 PM CW Bill Rouse via Groups.Io <brouse= gmail.com@groups.io> wrote: Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting. Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks. I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
Hi James Yes mine has 2 grease nipples also I am happy to report that my morse 401 racks were in great shape on inspection. I’m not too sure what they are made of
One of my cables was stiff which is why I took the steering apart. I discovered that’s the reason was due to grease working it’s way into the cable ends and hardening. I managed to flush the old grease out with some kerosene and the cable was very smooth after that. Thanks to Graham on Zephyr for that tip 👍 I think with the use of lithium grease this hardening won’t happen. One to consider.
All the very best
Miles Maramu 162
On 4 Dec 2019, at 00:06, James Alton via Groups.Io <lokiyawl2@...> wrote:
Miles,
If you look carefully on the back of the top rack I think that you will find that your boat actually has two grease nipples on the steering system, or at least mine does. I missed the second one myself on the first grease run. I can tell that grease is getting on to the racks since it changes the sound and the feel slightly. While it is certainly easy to pump some fresh grease in I am thinking that it would be a good idea for me to take everything apart and clean out any abrasive material that might be in the old grease. Fingers crossed that everything looks good!
Best,
James Maramu #220
Hi there I thought it would be interesting to note that on the mid 80s Maramus with morse 401 commander rack and pinion steering system each rack has a grease nipple so this sounds like a good idea as an upgrade for the ultraflex system imo.
All the best Miles Maramu 162 On 23 Nov 2019, at 21:32, CW Bill Rouse <brouse@...> wrote:
Pat,
The potential grease port location I spoke of may be easy to reach on one rack, but I am not sure about the other. See below.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 3:19 PM CW Bill Rouse via Groups.Io <brouse= gmail.com@groups.io> wrote: Pat,
I haven't considered that. I assume that you are referring to the racks...the steering cable is sealed.
I assume that the "leaking grease" is coming from the rack housing at one end or the other. If I recall these ends are not perfectly sealed. And as the toothed rack moves back and forth, it could push excess grease toward the ends of the rack housing.
Keep in mind that it is the steel toothed racks inside each rack housing that will fail with excess wear and that excess wear will be very close to the center of each rack. I believe this is wear caused by the autopilot "back and forth motion." It may also be caused by securing the helm in a center position while anchored.
Amel SAV said that they are going to be sourcing these steel toothed racks and have them available, even though the original manufacturer, Ultraflex, has stopped producing them. See the worn rack below:
One rack has teeth pointed upward, the other rack teeth are pointed downward. Tooth orientation, along with primarily center wear, should be considered when adding grease/fitting. Translation:Corrugated Washer ---- Teflon half-rings
Possibly, the cover shown below can be drilled to inject grease. If so, this would be a fairly easy modification that could possibly add years of service to the racks. I am worried that the metal is to thin to take a thread tap. If that is true, possibly it could be drilled, grease injected and a rubber plug inserted.
I know there are a few owners who can answer this question.
We may need a volunteer to study this further.
--
|
|
|
CW Bill Rouse
Amel Owners Yacht School
|
|
|
|
Address:
720 Winnie, Galveston Island, Texas 77550
|
|
|
|
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019 at 1:55 PM Patrick McAneny via Groups.Io <sailw32= aol.com@groups.io> wrote:
Bill, For some years now I have had a minor leak of grease from the rack&pinion . What do you think about adding a nipple to put a little grease back into the unit .
Thanks,
Pat
SM Shenanigans
-----Original Message-----
From: CW Bill Rouse < brouse@...>
To: main < main@amelyachtowners.groups.io>
Sent: Sat, Nov 23, 2019 9:52 am
Subject: Re: [AmelYachtOwners] Greasing stegring cables
The cables are sealed.
The racks and pinion have to be disassembled to add grease.
On Sat, Nov 23, 2019, 7:32 AM Arthur Sundqvist < arthur@...> wrote: How and where do I Grease the Steering Cables?
arthur sundqvist
sm435. Vista
Fair winds.....
|
|
|
