ABSTRACT
The objective of a maintenance program is to ensure satisfactory gearbox performance at all times and to maintain the transmission in a state of readiness if it is not in operation. This chapter presents some general comments on maintenance of gearboxes, and a specific unit may require special maintenance procedures and the manufacturer’s instructions. There are several maintenance actions that should be affected during the initial operation of a gearbox. Logs should be kept of instrument readings and maintenance actions to keep a running account of gearbox condition. The major causes of gearbox failure are improper lubrication and overload. Care must be taken to check for proper oil level before operation. Excessive oil volume can be as detrimental as lack of lubrication and will result in churning and overtemperature of components. The major modes of gear tooth failure are breakage, wear, pitting, and scoring.
