Removed the Spindle from the SB 10K

At the very least there is that little bit of capacity in the Gits oiler as well as the cavity that leads to the spindle wick, which could be the largest part of the spindle oil reservoir. It might be that if you took the Gits oiler off that it's a straight run into the headstock, with a 90 degree turn straight-up to the spindle. That would be the most logical, but who knows? Hopefully someone that has been in this part of the lathe recently can answer.

I know that my lathe is slowly consuming oil with cool bearing caps so everything should be fine. It doesn't seem like it takes very much, but I just had to refill the oil can so it does add-up over the months.
 
If I tighten the bearing caps to spec (measure with a gauge) the front bearing cap gets warm after a minute or two. I've just back it off to where it won't get warm. I'm guessing I'd need to add a shim but I'm not sure. I'll have to re-read the rebuild manual.
 
The reservoir holds under a teaspoon. It is below the gits threaded hole so will not drain out. I made a nipple that screws into the gits hole (5/16-24) and extends out an inch or so, then blast some compressed air in the small hole above and the oil will flush out thru the nipple. Repeat with mild solvent (paint thinner, wd 40 etc) then flush with clean oil a couple times. I wouldn't worry about it though. My well used 9A is 72 years old and shows no real spindle or bearing wear.

Nevertheless, I do still re/re the spindle and wash out the wicks every couple years.
 
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