The Forestry Forum

I would like to switch from water drip blade lube to a diesel wick lube. My only concern is I am runing a rubber and Kevlar drive and idler belts on my wheels. Will the diesel swell them and become a problem? If I switch the belts to polyurethane, will this hold up to diesel? I like the cooks set up but they use metal drive wheels. Let me know what you guys think. Thanks.

Been using it for years with the belts from woodmizer,i think they are gates.

 I run diesel in the winter and water in the summer with no trouble.  Steve

I have a Thomas mill. Been doing it since day one. I have no idea what I have for belts. It's only a drip every few seconds,if that. But I am not doing furniture wood. Just out buildings. I don't know if the diesel would affect the stain or not. I also put some bar and chain oil in the diesel too. That's what he told me, half and half.

Jhoff, you have the right idea when you mentioned wick for thats the key to applying petro based lubes. With a wick you not only apply lube sparingly but also physically clean the band. I have quit using diesel myself and now use drained hydraulic oil or ATF just don't use drained engine oil as it contains products of combustion which can be harmful. Applied sparingly with a wick absolutely no harm to belts. Frank C. 

Thank you guys for the help on this. It looks like I will be switching over.

Jhoff what are you sawing that is giving you enough trouble that makes you want to use diesel?

Nothing. Just rebuilding my saw and want to get rid of the large water tank for a 1 gal tank.  I am told diesel  will last much longer and saves on the roller guide bearings.