Aerogen bearings

[pessimist]

I have an Aerogen with knackered bearings. I'd rather take it to a local engineer than return it to the factory. The boat is based in Dartmuff and I live on Exmoor. Anyone know of an engineer who could do the job in either of those locations?

Assuming I can get it fixed how does one use a switch to stop the brute? I ask as I understand that lashing it is a sure way to knacker the bearings.

Cheers,

Colin

 

[doug748]

I have always found the Aerogen people to be very helpful and they have a good website. I am sure they will supply your new bearings. I have bought spares from other sources but have saved very little after being hit by minimum order charges. The bearings on my rotor are as good as new after 15+ years but I find the vertical axis ones last about 6/7 years. I suspect the grease is washed out of them. Any DIY,er will be able to sort out the repair for you. I tie the thing up to stop it, but mainly it runs 24/7.

 

[ashanta]

I just keep a loop of string around one of the blades and the machine itself so that the blades dont rotate when i dont wont them too. I just leave it running when on the mooring. This certainly doesn't knacker the bearings unless I am not understanding your meaning? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

 

[pessimist]

[ QUOTE ]
I just keep a loop of string around one of the blades and the machine itself so that the blades dont rotate when i dont wont them too. I just leave it running when on the mooring. This certainly doesn't knacker the bearings unless I am not understanding your meaning? /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

[/ QUOTE ]

That's exactly what I've done to date. I've now been told that this is a good way to knacker the bearings. Something to do with them vibrating in one position and causing a flat spot apparently.

Dunno - I'm no engineer, but you may have noticed that already. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

Cheers,

Colin

 

[pessimist]

[ QUOTE ]
Any DIY,er will be able to sort out the repair for you. I tie the thing up to stop it, but mainly it runs 24/7.

[/ QUOTE ]

I though that some kind of press was necessary to remove the old bearings and insert the new. Not so?

Cheers,

Colin

 

[doug748]

It is a few years since I did the pivot bearings but I probably just knocked them out. I can't recall any particular problem. I suspect the fan bearings would come out the same way

 

[pessimist]

Thanks for that - I can do brute force. /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif More seriously, I've little to lose by taking the brute apart. and having a look. I'll check Aerogen's web site for new bearings.

Cheers,

Colin

 

[pessimist]

OK, proof that I'm an idiot. Can't find Aerogens's web site. Do you have a URL?

Cheers,

Colin

 

[doug748]

Do a search for LVM Aerogen, that should get you there. Probably worth giving them a ring to discuss the job...

 

[pessimist]

Thanks a lot - that got me there.

Cheers,

Colin