GAGE

551 818 05C GAGE Functioning as a separator within a bearing assembly, this GAGE maintains the correct distance between the rolling elements. It prevents the balls or rollers from bunching up and contacting each other, which would generate excessive friction, heat, and rapid wear. This simple but vital role is essential for the bearing to handle the high rotational speeds and loads of the drilling cycle.

Located inside the drifter's rotation unit, this component has a direct effect on drilling reliability. A worn or broken GAGE will quickly lead to a complete bearing failure, stopping rotation and bringing the entire operation to a halt. The resulting vibration and friction can also reduce drilling accuracy and transmit damaging forces to other internal drifter parts.

Symptoms of a failing bearing GAGE include a distinct grinding or whining noise from the drifter, excessive heat in the rotation unit, or erratic rotation. During a rebuild, if the GAGE is found to be cracked or deformed, the entire bearing assembly must be replaced. Attempting to replace just the GAGE is not advisable; installing a complete new bearing is the correct procedure.