Re-true the grindstone often. This is especially true for the SG & SB grindstones, but also applies to the SJ Japanese grindstone. Make the TT-50 your friend.
Grindstones are like brake shoes : they wear out with use. Replace the grindstone when it gets too small.
T-8, T-7, & T-2000 - Replace the 250mm grindstone when it gets to 180mm.
T-4 & T-3 - Replace the 200mm grindstone when it gets to 150mm.
If there is a bump in the leather honing wheel, carefully sand it off.
Every once in a while, you'll need to clean the rubber drive wheel (it is behind the leather honing wheel). That is the one which engages with the motor shaft. It can get dirty, especially in a wood worker's shop.
Re-grease the nylon shaft bearings (actually, they are bushings) with any type of "ball bearing grease". Most users recommend simple white lithium grease. This should be done annually.
If you have something else, contact Tormek for support. They are great.
Other points of note regarding the Tormek include these notes
Regarding the leather honing wheels, do not over-oil them. The oils in the honing paste are typically sufficient. Adding other oil is really only necessary if the wheel is very dried out.
Regarding oils for use on the leather honing wheels.
Thin oils like sewing machine oil are best to use.
General purpose oils like 3-in-1 are OK to use.
Mineral Oil is OK to use.
Do not use WD-40. It can degrade the leather.
Do not use a lubricant with hardeners like paraffin.
This video from Alan Holtham covers the Tormek upgrades: EzyLock and AWT-250. It also shows the disassembly and assembly of the key parts quite well. This is a great "how-to" on the parts that will need periodic maintenance.
Tormek is a copyrighted logo of Tormek AB. Its presentation on this site is used to help the user quickly understand when specific Tormek tools, jigs, or setting are being used. For specific information regarding Tormek AB, or its products, please refer to the www.Tormek.com.
Remember : The goal of sharpening is to produce sharp tools, and these tools can injure you if mishandled. Safety measures should be followed to protect yourself and those in your shop. Be sure to read and follow all instructions from the manufacturer, and and utilize proper safety equipment. Never consume alcohol or anything that could impair your judgement before sharpening tools, or using sharp tools.
Comments can be sent via eMail to me at SharpeningHandbook@Gmail.com.
