Oiling question

[davevac]

Don't laugh....I'm handy when it comes to carpentry, plumbing, household
electrical, etc.
But, where do I oil my old vacuums ? I've attached pictures of my old Apex that runs fine but has not been oiled by me. On some vacuums, the oil hole is labeled as such and some have a spring with a cotton rope in it....some have screws that are labeled "do not remove".

Now that you're done laughing, where do I oil this vacuum and others I own ?

Dave

 

[texaskirbyguy]

Not a silly question!

It all depends what vac model you have. Give all the models you have and the experts will let you know what to do.

In general, sleeve bearings need oil (20 to 30 weight) and ball bearings need grease (high temp). A disassembly will let you know what you have. Bearings that are sealed with rubber seals can be relubed by removing the seals, removing old grease, and repacking. Of course do this only if the bearing is still tight and not worn. If worn, replace it.
This I say about bearings applies to all Kirby models if you have any.

BTW, that is a fine looking machine you have there! I love the simplicity...

 

[davevac]

Apex saleman sample

Actually works

 

[davevac]

Health - mor

I'm posting pics of my vacuums..any oiling info. and/or other information would be appreciated.
dave

 

[davevac]

Royal

Old Royal..last patent date 1907

 

[davevac]

Sterling Welch - Royal

Made by P.A. Geier Co. for Sterling Welch (also known as Sterling Linder department store in Clev., OH)

 

[davevac]

Packard

well built unit (like the car)

 

[davevac]

Eureka

my only non-Ohio vacuum

 

[davevac]

Air Way

How could you not have an Air Way ?

 

[davevac]

Vital

Trick question .....it is not electric....you get a running start and the bag fills with air...doesn't pick up much dirt though....made in Cleveland, OH

 

[hygiene903]

Hi Dave,

You have some nice vintage machines there! The Health-Mor, Packard, and Royals all have the same oil ports. There are 2 on each, front and rear, the front being just behind the fan case and the rear being just above and in front of the rear wheels. Both of these ports can be clearly seen in a couple of your pics, but only the rear one is visible in the other two. About 6 drops in each once a year is usually enough. 3 in 1 ELECTRIC MOTOR oil (NOT regular 3 in 1 oil) is best.
Jeff

 

[real1shep]

3 in 1 with the blue & white can...20wt non detergent oil for small electric motors....good stuff. If the sintered bushing were really worn, 30wt non detergent oil or just replace the bushings....being mindfull the shafts aren't worn (polish them smooth again with 400-600 grit wet & dry sandpaper).


 


Kevin