Gearbox Troubleshooting

Problem: Gearbox Becomes Hot
Solution: The exterior temperature of the gearbox may become hot due to several reasons. Please refer to the following information, take the necessary steps to solve this issue. If the gearbox temperature is excessive, please consult the manufacturer.

1. Ambient temperature is above advised level - If the ambient temperature is too high, it may diminish the efficiency of the gearbox. Install a cooling fan or move the application to a more viable location.

2. Proper ventilation - Proper ventilation is necessary, not only for the gearbox but for all electrical/mechanical equipment to function properly. Ensure that there is adequate air flow in the area of the equipment to allow for system cooling.

3. Improper shaft alignment - The first step is to check the alignment of the input shaft of the motor to the gearbox. It is necessary that the input shaft of the motor be aligned with the gearbox to ensure the proper use of the gearbox.

4. Overload - Decrease the load of the gearbox and observe if the temperature lowers. If not, your application may require a larger gearbox model.

5. Lubrication – Poor lubrication for the bearings and gears. Consult with the manufacturer regarding warranty information.

6. Improperly mounted bearings - Reassembly may be required of the gearbox. Consult with the manufacturer regarding warranty information.

Problem: Loud/Vibration Noise
Solution: Loud or vibration noises can be due to many different sources discussed in this section.

1. Improper installation - Improper installation may be a result of loose bolts or misalignment between the motor and gearbox. Tightening loose bolts and aligning the motor and gearbox may solve the issue of excessive noise.

2. Input speed too high - Lowering the input speed may help reduce the noise.

3. Overload - Decreasing the load may help reduce the noise. If not, a larger-sized model gearbox will be required.

4. Worn or damaged bearings - Worn or damaged bearings may need to be replaced. Consult with the manufacturer regarding warranty information.

5. Lubrication - Gears/bearings need to be properly lubricated for cohesiveness. Consult with the manufacturer regarding warranty information.

Problem: Input/Output Shafts Do Not Rotate
Solution: Before going through the below instructions, ensure the motor shaft rotates to isolate any problem with the motor or gearbox.

1. Proper installation - Ensure that all bolts connecting the motor to the gearbox are securely fastened.

2. Gear teeth are worn - Need to replace worn gears. Consult your dealer for warranty information.

3. Gears in locked position - Gears may need to be replaced due to wear and tear. Another possibility would be that a foreign object may need to be removed from within the gearbox, causing the gears to be in the locked position. Consult your dealer for warranty information.

Problem: Gear Teeth Wear
Solution: Wear and tear on gearboxes is natural occurrences. Proper use and system maintenance can help extend their lifetime of the gearbox.

1. Proper installation - Ensure that all bolts connecting the motor and the gearbox are securely fastened.

2. Excessive load - Wear and tear on the gear is caused by contact with other gears. Reducing the load will lower the tension the gears make with one another. If a higher load is required, using a larger gearbox may be necessary.

3. Input speed too high - Lowering the input speed may help reduce the amount of wear and tear on the gears.

4. Ambient temperature is above the advised level - If the ambient temperature is too high, it may diminish the efficiency of the gearbox. Installing a cooling fan, or moving the application to a more viable location may resolve this application.