Introduction to Lazy Susan Bearing
Lazy Susan bearings are unique bearings that are primarily used in rotating trays like kitchen cabinets, revolving bookcases, and other types of round structures. They are bearings that allow a circular tray or platform to rotate smoothly and effortlessly. They are designed to handle a lot of weight, while still providing a smooth and even rotation. However, with time and wear and tear, these bearings can become damaged or wear out. If you’re experiencing issues with your Lazy Susan bearing, all hope is not lost. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to fix a lazy Susan bearing.
Before delving into the details of how to fix a Lazy Susan bearing, it’s important to note that Lazy Susan bearings come in different sizes and types. Therefore, understanding the type and size of the Lazy Susan bearing you’re working on is essential. By doing so, you’ll be able to check if you need to purchase a new bearing or replace the current one.
The size and type of your Lazy Susan bearing can be found on the bearing itself or on its packaging. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to take a picture of the bearing and head to your local hardware store to find a match.
Below are some of the steps you need to follow to fix a Lazy Susan bearing.
- Remove the Lazy Susan Bearing: In order to fix your Lazy Susan bearing, the first step is to remove it from its current location. This process involves removing the rotating tray or platform that sits on the bearing. Once you have access to the bearing, you can proceed to remove the bearing itself. It’s important to use caution when removing the bearing, as some bearings require specific tools and methods to remove them without damage.
- Inspect the Bearing: After removing the bearing, inspect it carefully for any damage. Check the ball bearings, the raceway, and the housing for any cracks, rust, or other signs of wear and tear that could cause functionality issues. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to replace the bearing with a new one.
- Clean the Bearing: If you notice that the bearing is in good condition, it may just need a thorough cleaning. Clean the ball bearings, raceway, and housing with a dry cloth to remove any debris, dust, or grime.
- Lubricate the Bearing: Once you’ve cleaned the bearing, apply a lubricant to the ball bearings, raceway, and housing. This will help ensure that the bearing rotates smoothly and without any hiccups. Be careful not to over-lubricate the bearing, as this can attract dust and debris which can lead to further issues.
- Reinstall the Bearing: After cleaning and lubricating the bearing, carefully re-install it in its original location. Reassemble any other necessary parts like the platform and turntable, and test the bearing to ensure proper functionality.
With these simple steps, you can easily fix a Lazy Susan bearing that’s not functioning properly. Remember to take your time, be careful, and always double-check your work to ensure that your lazy Susan bearing works like new again.
Tools and Materials Required for Fixing Lazy Susan Bearing
If your Lazy Susan bearing is not revolving smoothly, you can take some simple steps to replace its worn-out parts. Fixing a Lazy Susan bearing is not difficult. You don’t need to be an expert technician. You can do it yourself by following some simple instructions and using the right tools and materials.
Here are the tools and materials that you need to fix your Lazy Susan bearing:
- Screwdriver
- Hacksaw blade or reciprocating saw
- Hammer
- New ball bearings
- Grease
The above tools and materials are available at most hardware stores, and you can easily find them online.
Screwdriver
A screwdriver is an essential tool that you need to remove the screws that hold the Lazy Susan bearing in place. You will need a Phillips-head screwdriver or a flathead screwdriver, depending on the type of screws that you have.
Hacksaw Blade or Reciprocating Saw
You will need a hacksaw blade or a reciprocating saw to cut off the worn ball bearings from the Lazy Susan bearing. A hacksaw blade is a manual saw that has teeth on one edge. A reciprocating saw is an electric saw that uses a push-and-pull motion to cut through materials.
Before you use a hacksaw blade or a reciprocating saw, make sure that you take all the necessary safety precautions. Wear protective gloves and goggles to protect your hands and eyes from metal shavings.
Hammer
You will need a hammer to tap the new ball bearings into the Lazy Susan bearing. A hammer is a tool that has a flat surface on one end and a pointed end on the other.
Before you use a hammer, make sure that you use it carefully and avoid hitting your fingers.
New Ball Bearings
You will need new ball bearings to replace the worn-out ball bearings of the Lazy Susan bearing. Ball bearings are small metal balls that reduce rotational friction between two moving parts.
You can buy new ball bearings from a hardware store or an online retailer. Make sure that you buy the right size and type of ball bearings for your Lazy Susan bearing.
Grease
You will need grease to lubricate the ball bearings and make them rotate smoothly. Grease is a semi-solid lubricant that reduces friction between two moving parts. It also protects the metal parts from rust and corrosion.
You can buy a small tube of grease from a hardware store or an online retailer. Make sure that you buy the right type of grease for your Lazy Susan bearing.
By acquiring these simple tools and materials, you are now equipped to fix your Lazy Susan bearing. These tools and materials are also affordable and easy to find. In addition, they have multiple uses that make them valuable in your daily life. Take note that proper handling of these items is important to avoid accidents and injuries.
Steps to Disassemble and Repair Lazy Susan Bearing
Lazy Susan bearings are bearings that are used to make rotating trays, or revolving shelves turn smoothly. They are commonly used in kitchen cabinets, display cases, bookshelves, and many other types of furniture. Like any other mechanical part, lazy Susan bearings can break down or become sluggish over time, making it difficult to turn the shelves. If you have noticed this issue, it is time to disassemble and repair the lazy Susan bearing.
Before you begin, make sure that you have all the necessary tools and equipment, including safety gear. Wear protective eyewear and gloves throughout the process, especially when working with metal parts. Here are some easy steps to disassemble and repair lazy Susan bearing:
Contents
Step 1
Remove the lazy Susan from its mounted position in your cabinet or shelf and place it on a flat surface. Turn the tray over so that its bottom is facing up. Check if there is a retaining ring holding the bearing in place. If there is, remove it using a retaining ring plier. You can easily buy one from your local hardware store.
Step 2
Next, you need to remove the lazy Susan bearing ball. You can do this by inserting two long nails on opposite sides of the ball. Push the nails in and turn them 90 degrees to lock them in place. Then, lift up the ball with a pair of pliers and remove it from the tray. If your lazy Susan has a plastic bearing, you can remove it by pushing it out from underneath.
Step 3
To repair the lazy Susan bearing, you need to clean it thoroughly. Mix hot water and dish soap or another mild detergent in a bowl. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and wipe down the bearing ball and tray thoroughly. Remove any dirt, dust, or debris that has accumulated on the ball or in the raceway. Dry the parts with a clean cloth before proceeding further.
Next, you need to lubricate the bearing to make it slide smoothly. Lubrication will also prevent dust, dirt, and other particles from accumulating. Use a silicone-based lubricant spray or grease to lubricate the ball and the raceway. Apply the lubricant evenly and try to cover the entire surface.
Step 4
If your bearing is damaged and cannot be repaired, you will need to replace it. You can buy a new lazy Susan bearing from most home improvement stores or online retailers. Make sure that you buy the same size and type of bearing as the old one. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing the bearing.
Finally, reassemble the lazy Susan. Place the bearing ball in the center of the raceway and press down firmly. Then, replace the retaining ring using the retaining ring plier. Turn the tray back over and mount it back into place in your cabinet or shelf. Your lazy Susan should now rotate smoothly and effortlessly.
By following these easy steps to disassemble and repair lazy Susan bearing, you can save yourself time and money. With regular maintenance, your lazy Susan will perform smoothly and flawlessly for years, making your life easier and more organized.
How to Grease and Reassemble Lazy Susan Bearing
When your Lazy Susan Bearing starts to suffer, it can be frustrating for anyone that has to deal with it. The good news is that it’s a relatively easy fix. By following these simple steps, you can grease and reassemble your lazy susan bearing quickly and easily.
1. Cleaning the Bearing
The first step to fixing a lazy susan bearing is to remove it from the shelf. Next, clean the bearings with a mild soap and water solution. Use a toothbrush or other scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the bearings. Make sure to dry the bearings thoroughly before moving on to the next step.
2. Applying Grease
After cleaning the bearings, the next step is to apply grease to each of the bearings. You can use any type of grease that you have on hand, but be sure to use a good-quality grease that is specifically designed for bearings. Apply the grease generously to each of the bearings, making sure to get the grease into all of the crevices and gaps.
3. Reassembling the Bearing
Once the bearings have been cleaned and greased, it’s time to reassemble the lazy susan bearing. Place the bearings back into their housing carefully, making sure to align them properly. Once you have all of the bearings in place, secure the bearing housing back onto the shelf by tightening the screws or bolts that hold it in place.
4. Testing the Bearing
After reassembling the lazy susan bearing, test it by rotating it slowly. You should be able to feel the smoothness of the bearing as it rotates around. If you feel any bumps or resistance, remove the bearing and repeat the cleaning and greasing process until you get a smooth, effortless rotation.
By following these simple steps, you can have your lazy susan bearing working smoothly and efficiently once again. With just a little bit of effort and time, you can avoid the hassle of a malfunctioning lazy susan in your kitchen or dining room.
Tips for Proper Maintenance of Lazy Susan Bearing
Lazy Susan bearing is very popular in the world of furniture and housewares. It is usually used for accommodating items that need to be rotated or swiveled. It is a rotating tray that adds an extra level of convenience to any piece of furniture. However, like any other equipment, a lazy Susan bearing requires proper upkeep to ensure its optimal performance for years to come. Here are some tips for proper maintenance of lazy Susan bearing.
1. Keep it Clean
A clean lazy Susan bearing performs better than a dirty one. Therefore, it is important to keep it clean. The easiest way to do this is by dusting it regularly. Use a soft, lint-free cloth or a feather duster to remove dust particles from the bearing’s surface. For tougher stains, use a damp cloth with mild detergent solution. Once cleaned, make sure to dry it completely before using it again.
2. Lubricate the Bearing
Like any other moving part, a lazy Susan bearing needs lubrication to function properly. The bearing should be greased with a good quality silicon-based lubricant. Apply the lubricant generously on the bearing and then rotate the tray several times to ensure even distribution. It is recommended to lubricate the bearing every six months or as needed.
3. Check for Damage or Wear and Tear
Constant usage of lazy Susan bearing can cause eventual damage or wear and tear. It’s important to check for any damage or wear and tear regularly. Signs that something may be off could include a wobbly or rough movement when you spin it. If you see any damage or wear and tear, consider replacing the bearing or contact a professional to repair it. Avoid using a damaged or worn-out bearing as it can damage the items placed on it.
4. Consider the Load Capacity
Lazy Susan bearings come in various sizes and load capacities. It is important to choose the right size and load capacity bearing based on the weight of the items that will be placed on it. If the bearing is overloaded, it could cause damage and can be hazardous to both the bearing and the items on it. Avoid overloading the bearing to ensure its longevity.
5. Use it Regularly
The best way to keep a lazy Susan bearing in perfect working condition is to use it regularly. The bearing is designed to rotate, and if it is not used for an extended period of time, it may become stiff or difficult to turn. Therefore, it is important to use it at least once a week to prevent it from jamming or becoming difficult to rotate. Regular usage also allows you to notice quickly if there are any problems, such as a wobbling bearing, before they become a more significant issue.
By following these tips for proper maintenance of lazy Susan bearing, you can extend the life of your bearing, ensure its consistent performance, and reduce the chances of any unfortunate mishaps. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in taking care of your furniture and housewares.