To effectively oil your Ashford spinning wheel, focus on key friction points: the wheel bearings on either side and the Conrad joint. Regular oiling ensures smooth operation and extends the life of your wheel.
Why Oiling is Essential
Maintaining your spinning wheel with proper lubrication is crucial for its performance. A well-oiled wheel revolves freely and quietly, making your spinning experience more enjoyable and efficient. If your wheel feels stiff or doesn't spin easily, it's a clear indicator that it needs lubrication.
Key Oiling Points
Based on the Ashford maintenance guide, there are specific areas that require attention when oiling your spinning wheel:
- Wheel Bearings: These are critical for the main wheel's rotation.
- Conrad Joint: This joint often facilitates the movement of the flyer assembly.
Here's a breakdown of the oiling process:
*Image: Visual representation of a spinning wheel, similar to the reference video's context.*
1. Check Wheel Freedom
First, give your main wheel a spin. It should rotate nice and freely. If it doesn't, this is your cue to apply oil.
2. Lubricating the Bearings
The main wheel of your Ashford spinning wheel is supported by bearings on both sides. These points experience significant friction during use.
- Location: Apply a drop of oil to the bearings located on either side of the wheel.
- Purpose: This ensures the large drive wheel spins smoothly and without resistance.
3. Oiling the Conrad Joint
The Conrad joint is another vital point for the smooth operation of your spinning wheel, particularly concerning the flyer and bobbin system.
- Location: Add a single drop of oil directly to the Conrad joint.
- Purpose: Lubricating this joint helps the flyer assembly turn without unnecessary drag, contributing to consistent yarn twist.
4. Post-Oiling Check
After applying oil to these specific points, give the flyer a spin. This helps distribute the oil and confirms that the lubrication has improved the wheel's movement. Your wheel should now revolve much more smoothly.
Summary of Oiling Points
For clarity, here's a quick reference table of where to oil your Ashford spinning wheel:
| Oiling Point | Description | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Bearings | Bearings supporting the main drive wheel. | Add a drop of oil to each side. |
| Conrad Joint | Specific joint contributing to flyer movement. | Apply a single drop of oil here. |
| Post-Oiling Check | The flyer assembly. | Give the flyer a spin to confirm fluidity. |
Regular maintenance, including strategic oiling, will ensure your Ashford spinning wheel provides years of enjoyable and productive use.
