Square 4 BA Gearbox problem.

[malcolm.johnson]

The 1947 Square 4 I am building was about as dismantled as you can get. My current project - the gearbox was no exception, except extra parts were in the box to make life more interesting. However I have fully built the gearbox and it does work, engaging all gears and free in neutral, UNTIL I do a final tighten of the mainshaft nut at the kickstart end. The box is then stiff to rotate despite a very small amount of endplay in the mainshaft. The layshaft is the later 1950 shaft with annular groove although the cases are the original 1947. At the moment I am scratching my head? Any thoughts please?
ps. has anyone got a speedometer gear (3150-50 15 teeth) to suit the layshaft? One in the box had 13t - what was that from?

[nevhunter]

You have to give it more play if that happens. The small amount is only in the kicker end race. Don't overtighten the nut and use Loctite on it as it can work loose. Nev

[malcolm.johnson]

Thanks Nev. I will happily take your advice.

[malcolm.johnson]

I have finished the gearbox to my satisfaction and now need to put some lubricant in. Apart from a little squirt of oil here and there on assembly the box is empty. I know this subject has been done to death, but I have been given a can of commercial vehicle semi fluid grease for the automatic oiling system of king pins etc. Is this stuff any good for the Burman? Should I add straight 50 to it?

[alan.moore]

malcolm
It may be difficult for anyone to comment as the viscosity of the semi fluid grease you have is an unknown. Does it have a NGLI rating on the container?

As you say the topic has had great coverage on the forum. I use a 50/50 mix of standard lithium grease (the stuff you would use on wheel bearings) and straight 50 grade. Maybe mix up a small batch of that and compare it with what you have?