Here is the standard procedure to ensure a smooth, professional installation.
1. Preparation and Cleaning
Before you begin, ensure your workspace is clean. Dust or metal shavings are the enemies of linear motion.
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Inspect the Rail: Check the rail for any nicks or burrs.
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Clean Surfaces: Wipe down the rail and the block mounting surface with a lint-free cloth and a light degreaser or machine oil.
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Keep the Plastic Mandrel: Most new blocks come with a plastic ''dummy rail'' (mandrel) inserted. Do not remove this until you are ready to slide the block onto the actual rail. It keeps the ball bearings from falling out.
2. Alignment and Initial Mounting
Align the rail with the block so that the raceways on both components match perfectly.
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Butt the Mandrel to the Rail: Press the end of the plastic mandrel directly against the end of the steel rail. Ensure there is no gap and that they are perfectly aligned.
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The Transfer: Gently slide the block from the mandrel onto the rail. It should move with very little resistance.
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Note: If you feel a ''clunk'' or significant resistance, stop immediately. Re-align and try again to avoid dislodging a bearing.
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3. Securing the Block to the Carriage
Once the block is on the rail, you will typically bolt it to your mounting plate or carriage.
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Finger Tighten: Place your carriage on top of the block(s) and insert the mounting bolts. Tighten them by hand first to allow for slight self-alignment.
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Standard Tightening Pattern: Use a ''cross'' or ''star'' pattern to tighten the bolts. This prevents the block from tilting or skewing during the process.
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Torque to Spec: Use a torque wrench to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's recommended values.
Over-tightening can deform the block, while under-tightening can lead to loose fasteners over time.
4. Final Testing and Lubrication
A mounted block should never be run ''dry'' for extended periods.
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Stroke Test: Slide the carriage back and forth along the full length of the rail. It should feel consistent and smooth.
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Lubricate: Use a grease gun to apply the specified lubricant through the grease nipple on the end of the block. Move the block while lubricating to ensure the grease coats all the internal ball bearings.
Parallel Guides: If you are mounting multiple rails in parallel, use a dial indicator to ensure they are perfectly parallel to one another. Even a small misalignment can cause the blocks to ''bind'' as they move.
