cleaning thk linear slides

[jp_dt]

I found two linear guides and four matching blocks for them at a local surplus place; for 10 bucks. They are a bit dirty and some mild rust has taken hold on the guides. I don't expect these to return to their original performance, but it seems as though the lubricant has started to break down on them...they feel sticky. Anyone had experience in cleaning these things? It appears as though the blocks might have some rubber/plastic bits. Do i need to worry about which cleaner to use before re-lubricating? I know THK says use lithium grease for their current products. Should i do the same? I was also thinking of hitting the rust on the guides/rails with some naval jelly. Is that a bad idea?

here's some pictures
pic 1
pic 2
pic 3

thx

[mxtras]

The damage is done (if any) - I would suggest removing the rust with fine steel wool and making sure everything is clean and re-lube them. Use the reccomended, light lithium grease. The stuff they reccomend is thin - almost runny. If you use regular general purpose grease it will prohibit the small balls from re-circulating properly. Use the right grease, for sure.

Scott

[mxpro32]

you might want to try naval jelly to remove the rust. you can find it at the hardware store. It removes the rust with minimal effort and without scratching.

[jp_dt]

thanks for the input guys,

the parts that look like they have actual contact with bearings on the guides are pretty much rust free. it looks like whatever they used for lube was pretty sticky. i was worried that steel wool would change the surface so that's why i was opting for naval jelly. i recently used it on a rockwell unisaw that i got for free. it was free because it's top was covered with rust. the jelly and lots of elbow grease worked out pretty good.

any ideas on de-greasing before re-greasing?

[Hack]

I have been following this thread with interest not so much from the fact that I have rusty slides, but ones that need regreased. My slides have grease Zerts, but I need to know what type (brand etc) and where to get the grease to use in them if possible. Does the light lithium grease as mentioned above come for use in a grease gun. Seems that would be way to much grease as I only have a half a dozen block to grease.

Thanks all

Dan