Topic: WMR-968 Anemometer Maintenance

[dewey]

I brought my WMR-968 anemometer and solar panel down from my radio tower for a check-up.  I cleaned it externally, shortened the cable, and fixed some cracks with epoxy.  I'm wondering if I should remove the wind vane and/or wind cups to lubricate the shafts?  Or do they ever need lubrication?

[WeatherGoose]

I brought my WMR-968 anemometer and solar panel down from my radio tower for a check-up.  I cleaned it externally, shortened the cable, and fixed some cracks with epoxy.  I'm wondering if I should remove the wind vane and/or wind cups to lubricate the shafts?  Or do they ever need lubrication?

I am not sure if there is a difference between the bearings in your OS anemometer and the Davis VP2 anemometer I have, but it is generally considered a NO NO to put ANY kind of oil, WD-40 etc. on the shafts because it will eventually attract dust and grime which over time will gum up the bearings and cause problems with the sensitivity of the device. (reduces free-wheeling nature of rotor)

[Downlinerz2]

   I totally agree with WeatherGoose on this one.  It would be a major mistake to lubricate the shaft. Maybe clean it but that would be it.

[Anthony]

If it isn't broken, don't fix it.

[sam2004gp]

Yeah, like everybody else said, Don't mess with it.

[dewey]

OK.  That's what I was thinking too, but wanted to make sure.  Thanks everyone.

[Stormtracker]

Your anemometer shaft/bearings should NEVER be lubricated, for the reasons already stated in this thread.  Your wind vane shaft/bearings aren't quite as critical-- as long as the vane is freely mobile-- it's fine.  I don't think it is terribly important, but minor repairs to the anemometer might render the balance off-- thus imparting uneven wear on the shaft and bearings over time.  You definitely should inspect everything regularly, as you are doing.