MaxArc oil filled welder seized

[jo1010]

I got this to run an HF unit (with the machine), but the crank arm on top of the machine for amp adjustment is seized so need to investigate - presumably the shunt is stuck in the transformer, but as it's oil filled that shouldn't happen.......machine was inside a dry workshop so fairly well kept, but I'd guess over time water has maybe condensed inside and jammed it up. Thinking a quick look inside is best (with the help of an engine crane - this is seriously heavy beast which was fun loading into a trailer) look at the condition of the oil or if anything is jamming the lead screw. I'll post pics later. Any additional thoughts?

 

[jenki]

Depending on age beware of the oil. The original oils contained PCB's belatedly recognised as a carcinogen.

 

[jo1010]

Depending on age beware of the oil. The original oils contained PCB's belatedly recognised as a carcinogen.

Yes. Thanks, good to remember that. In fact any old oil is a potential health risk really. Whether the old builders I knew that used to spray their chests with wd40 (yes really ) to cure something (arthritis?) had any adverse outcomes idk...

 

[brightspark]

just lift it out and see whats going on even if it did have added pcb it wont harm you wearing gloves. only if u have constant contact with it on your skin its bad for health

 

[jo1010]

just lift it out and see whats going on even if it did have added pcb it wont harm you wearing gloves. only if u have constant contact with it on your skin its bad for health

Yeah, I'm not gonna bathe in it (hopefully)

 

[Barking Mat]

When I separated my Oxford oil welder I used a block and tackle to remove the innards, as they're still silly heavy.

 

[jo1010]

Yep. I was amazed how such a small box needed a ramp and winch to easily load in the trailer . Must be in excess of 100kg - I haven't got anything that will even measure that weight - apart from a local weighbridge . I'll use the engine crane to dismantle...

 

[brightspark]

When I separated my Oxford oil welder I used a block and tackle to remove the innards, as they're still silly heavy.

yep all the weight of transformer is bolted to the lid it only leaves the tank and oil