Makita's Mysterious Dual Linear Ball Bearings
After a couple of posts already about the Makita LS1013L and LS1214L and the dual linear ball bearings, and about the shortcomings of other manufacturers, I started researching the Makita saws even deeper. What I found was that I could easily locate one of them on one of the rails, but the other seemed to be hiding very well. I could also easily locate one on the schematic of the LS1013 as well. However, the other has been a mystery.The mystery continues
I pointed this out to some of our front counter people, and they saw the same thing I did. This led to questioning of our Makita rep, which ended up with the answer of it's there, you just missed it. One is easily found, the other is buried in the saw.
Searching for answers
Not one to take the easy answer, I went ahead and emailed one of the Makita training personnel that we had at our location a few weeks ago. I asked him where it was in the saw, and let him know we couldn't locate it. I got a response from him that explained why we were missing it, and I'll show you why I missed it here.
The first one
As you probably can't tell (clicking the image lets you see it a bit clearer), part #149 is a linear ball bearing assembly. The full description is shown to the right (as seen on the schematic.) But, that only shows one. There isn't another one listed anywhere as a part.The second one
But wait! We have a second, it was just impossible to see on the diagram. Part #140, which is the base, includes a linear ball bearing. I didn't quite understand why at first, but it was explained to me by Chris from our front counter. One is fixed, the other is adjustable. By having one in a fixed position, you have something to adjust against when aligning the slides.Mystery solved!
Labels: Makita, Miter Saws, Tool Inner Workings
posted by Brian Mark at 10:43 AM
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4 Comments:
I found this post interesting since I purchased a new LS1214L a couple of weeks ago. I have been concerned because the slide action, particularly on the pull stroke (esp. the last few inches) has some drag. I use it in a cool shop environment (around 50-55 degrees)and occasionally outdoors (30+ deg.) I have been assured by Makita tech support there is no prob., it should smooth out over time. However, I am still concerned. Don't know if it's an adjustment prob. or defective unit.
Any comments would be appreciated.
Monday, 23 January, 2006
Paul,
I'm answering this for Brian, since I work with him and all. I wouldn't be too concerned about this. When we open a new display saw in our show room the rails are a little stiff at the end of the pull stroke. My assumption it is because the saw stays in the fully extended position for shipping and warehouse storage. It just takes a little bit of use to get through that stage.
Once they get "loosened up" in our showroom, they are as smooth as butter.
Another thought to keep in mind, that the Makita tools have that 30 day satisfaction guarantee so if it doesn't clear up that is an option. And they do also have a 1 year warranty that would cover the service work if it does have a defective bearing.
Monday, 23 January, 2006
Matt, thanks for your input. Frankly, I've owned two DeWalt non-sliders with good results. A short while ago, I purchased DeWalt's latest 12" slide saw DW718. The specs are fantastic, but I found that the slide action was poor. I believe this is because of the new design and the fact they use only one linear bearing, and a split bushing on the second rail. An adj. screw allows fine tuning, but acceptable results only to the point there is play in the rails.
This is the reason for my paranoia. After some research I chose the Makita. As you say, I have the 30-day warr., but your input has given me more confidence in the answer from Makita.
Monday, 23 January, 2006
I just wanted to thank you for the great article on the "linear ball bearings". Not long ago I picked up a Hitachi 8 1/2 on eBay and was delighted to get it for about $200. Then I set it up for a trial run and was concerned when I felt drag on the pull. So I go on line to Partsbarn.com and try to find bearings of anykind. I finally deduced that the "998825 BALL BUSHING" was the culprit and was grieved to see it was $126. Hitachi was righted highest in several consumer reports but I bet the Makita takes over soon. I guess I will order the part and hope it works out, but I'm clueless how one line of bearings can keep a tube in line. There has to be two! Will let you know. and why bother to use two tubes if only one has bearings? It's sneaky and unscrupulous in my book. Thanks for the great website.
Friday, 13 April, 2007
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