Ovision worm cleaning/maintenance

[Lee]

G'day all....
I'm planning some observatory maintenance in a couple of weeks, so will take the G-11 inside and strip it down for some fresh grease, I think the stuff that has been in it the past 5 years is getting a bit sticky and is showing in the guiding....
I've stripped it down before, so know the basics, and will google for refreshers.
I added the ovision worm back in 2013. Has anyone had any experience with cleaning/regreasing this part? I know the manufacturer states its pre-greased and not to add anything when installing....


Thanks in advance....
Lee

[Wavytone]

I know you mean well but frankly don’t fix what ain’t broke.

Some worms are cut from oil-impregnated bronze - ie self-lubricating. You won’t improve it.o

[Lee]

I do remember improvements in performance after a regrease back in 2013, but the ovision worm has been added since. I won't be mucking about with it unless its obviously contaminated....

[spiezzy]

Lee
I would shoot a email to losmandy they are real good and quick at getting back to you I did the same thing ages ago with my G11 and they ended up sending me a small sachet of grease they use and from memory it was for free worth a try great blokes
cheers Pete

[multiweb]

Rince with turp and a brush. Clean the gear the same way and only lube the gear. The worm will take care of itself.

[Lee]

Thanks, that's what I did before, I think I used some sort of degreaser? I ordered some Superlube on eBay, it seems to be the favourite, I used some Inox stuff last time, it seemed OK too.
Superlube on the gear as well?

[multiweb]

I use MP-50 molypaste. I used superlube but the molypaste seems to be more resilient with water contamination and sticks to the gears better.

[Lee]

Would any molypaste be suitable do you think?

[multiweb]

I've got this specific type because that's what they used on the now defunct Mountain Instruments mounts (MI-250), that was pre Losmandy G11/Titans, etc... Had a chat with the owner in the US at the time before they ceased operation.

[Lee]

I'm just re-reading this - would you rinse out the worm assembly?
and - where did you get the MP-50? I've found an Australian distributor but it's unclear if they'll sell retail.

[multiweb]

Yes. Pull everything apart. Bearings, worms, everything. Bucket, tooth brush, turp. Get rid of all the old grease. Go for it. Once a year.
I bought one can from the US online. It's a lifetime supply. :)

[Lee]

xtex.com.au - happy to sell a 1lb tin retail, it's in the post.... :)