Hale HFM - Manual (Page 17)

Hale Model HFM
Recommended Preventive Maintenance Procedure
1. Lubrication.
The Hale pumps utilize oil-bath type lubrication of all gears and bearings in
the pump transmission. Oil level in the transmission should be maintained even with the
oil level plug, which is located on the lower left hand side of the gear case.
WARNING: Insufficient oil will result in serious damage to the all bearings and other
internal parts. An excessive amount of oil will cause the transmission to run at an
unusually high temperature, which may cause an oil breakdown.
WARNING: It is normal practice to ship pump to builder without oil, oil must be
added before operating.
It is recommended that the oil be changed every three months and after any prolonged
period of pumping. A good grade of SAE 30 non-detergent motor oil should be used in the
transmission. DO NOT use heavier oil. Check oil level at regular intervals.
Should your department be fortunate enough to have only a few calls during the year, it
will be beneficial to operate the pump once a week - perhaps during drill work.
2. Drafting. When pumping large volumes of water, the strainer should be submerged at least
two feet below the surface. Use extra caution when drafting from shallow water sources
with mud, sand or gravel bottom. Keep the strainer off bottom by placing it inside a barrel
with the top cut down, or use a similar method.
3. Salt Water Use. After pumping salt water, pump from a hydrant for a few minutes to flush
out the pump. Also, follow this procedure after pumping excessively dirty water.
4. Cold Weather. It is recommended that during cold weather the pump should be drained at
all times, except when kept in a heated fire house.
CAUTION: If long runs in very cold weather are expected (such as in rural areas), it
is wise to maintain a dry pump regardless of storage conditions.