Adjusting Gibs
Gibs control the accuracy of the table movements along the ways. Tight gibs make the movements more accurate, but harder to move. Loose gibs make the movements sloppy, but easier to move. The goal of gib adjustment is to remove unnec- essary sloppiness without causing the ways to bind.
NOTICE
Excessively loose gibs may cause poor workpiece finishes, and may cause undue wear of sliding surfaces and ways. Over- tightening the gibs may cause premature wear of these sliding devices.
Each sliding surface for the table, saddle, and knee has a tapered gib that is sandwiched between the stationary and moving surfaces. The saddle and knee have a gib on both sides. There are two adjustment screws, one on each end of each gib, that move the tapered gib back and forth, increasing or decreasing friction of the sliding surfaces.
DISCONNECT MILL FROM POWER BEFORE ADJUSTING THE GIBS!
Loosen one adjustment screw and tighten the other the same amount to move the gib until you feel a slight drag in that path of movement.
Refer to Figures
Tools Needed | Qty |
Flat Head Screwdriver | ........................................ 1 |
Table Gib Adjustment
Screw (1 of 2)
Figure 60. Table gib adjustment screw (1 of 2).
Saddle Gib Adjustment
Screw (1 of 2)
Figure 61. Saddle gib adjustment screw (1 of 2).
Knee Gib Adjustment Screw
(1 of 2)