27
OPERATION MANUAL
Gibs are tapered lengths of metal that are
sandwiched between two moving surfaces.
Gibs the gap between these surfaces and how
they slide past one another. Correctly adjusting
the gibs is critical to producing good milling
results.
Tight gibs make the table movement more
accurate but stiff. Loose gibs make moving the
table sloppy but easier to do. The goal of gib
adjustment is to remove unnecessary sloppi-
ness without causing the ways to bind.
Gibs are adjusted with a screw on each end
of the gib, that move the tapered gib back-
and-forth to increase or decrease the friction
pressure between the sliding surfaces. The
process of properly adjusting the gibs requires
trial-and-error and patience.
Refer to Fig. 6.3-6.4 to identify the locations
of the table and saddle, and one of the two
adjustment screws for each.
NOTE: It will be necessary to remove small
parts, such as way wipers and covers, to access
the gib adjustment screws.
The following is the method used to adjust the
gibs.
1. DISCONNECT THE MACHINE FROM POWER!
2. Make sure all table locks are loose.
3. Loosen one gib adjustment screw, then
tighten the other the same amount to move
the gib.
4. Use the handles to move the table until
you feel a slight drag in the path of the
movement. Repeat Steps 3–4 as necessary.
6.3 GIB ADJUSTMENT
F
ig
. 6.3
Table Gib
F
ig
. 6.4
Saddle Gib