Lube Block Procedure

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Progressive Lube Distributor Blocks are made up of many segments that send precisely metered pulses of oil to specific lubrication points. If you are experiencing lube pulse problems, it is important to make sure the Distributor Block segments are working properly. You will need two people and the following tools to perform this procedure:

Tools Needed:

	Metric Allen Wrench Set
	Adjustable Wrench
	Stopwatch
	Clean one gallon container
	Graduated container (graduated in ML, with capacity of at least 1000 ML)
	Volume Testing Tool

PROCEDURE:

1. Push the Machine Off pushbutton to turn off the lubrication pump.
2. Locate the distributor block to be tested.
3. Remove the cap on the Distribution Block segment you are testing
   
   Each segment has two caps. Either one can be used for testing.
4. Screw the pressure gauge into the first segment to be tested.
   
   You only need to test those segments with lube lines attached to them.
5. Turn the lubrication pump back on and check the pressure reading. Write down the reading for reference later.
6. Go to another press that is operating properly and check the pressure at the same segment you are testing. The pressure readings should be about the same (+ or - 5 bar). If the pressure reading on the press you are checking is lower than the operating press, the problem is most likely with the Distribution Block and it should be replaced.
   
   If the pressure reading on the press you are checking is much higher than the operating press, the problem is most likely internal mechanical damage to the bearing or bushing. The damaged component has blocked the lubrication port, leaving the oil no place to flow and thereby creating the high pressure reading.
7. If the pressures are the same, return to the press and test the next segment. Continue until all segments are tested.
   
   This task can be done quickly by using multiple pressure gauges. If you have enough pressure gauges, all segments can be tested at the same time.
8. If the pressures are OK, begin checking volume outputs by first turning off the lubrication pump and removing the lube line from the first segment to be tested.
9. Attach the hose end of the Volume Testing Tool to the segment.
10. Then, place the adjustment valve end of the Volume Testing Tool into the clean bucket, have the helper start the lubrication pump by pushing the Machine On pushbutton and fully open the adjustment valve.
11. Allow the oil to flow into the bucket for a minute. This insures the lubrication system is at normal operating pressure when the measurement is taken.
12. Slowly close the adjustment valve until the pressure gauge reading is the same as the pressure reading recorded earlier for that segment.
13. Quickly transfer the adjustment valve into the graduated container and have the second person begin timing.
14. At the end of 60 seconds, transfer the adjustment valve back into the bucket.
15. Have the helper push the Machine Off pushbutton to shut off the lubrication pump.
16. Check the volume of oil in the graduated container.
17. Compare this value to the value listed on the Lubrication Plan.
18. If the values are not the same, you must replace either the segment or the entire distribution block.
    
    If you choose to replace the segment only, remember that because of the way the lube flows inside a Progressive Distributor Block, you must replace the segment ABOVE the one you are testing. If you are testing the very top segment, replace the bottom one.
    
    When replacing segments, make sure the replacement segment is the same type as the original. Different segments put out different oil volumes. Segments are identified by "M" numbers (M1, M2, M2.5, M3, etc.). The "M" number is stamped on each segment.
19. If the volume matches that listed on the Lubrication Plan, repeat the procedure for the rest of the segments.