
Durability Index Apparatus
SS-18 and SS-18F
ASTM D 3744; AASHTO T 210; CALIF. 227, 229
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS:
Whether you are the owner, employer, operator, or maintenance
person for this machine, safety is your responsibility. You are
responsible for operating and maintaining this equipment
in compliance with these instructions. You should always
review and completely understand these safety and operating
instructions before using this machine.
Installation and use of the SS-18 Durability Index Apparatus
must conform to all OSHA requirements, the national electrical
code (NEC), and all local codes.
WARNING!
OPERATING MANUAL
1. DANGER! This machine operates on electrical
current. Improper use could result in electric shock,
electrocution, injury by explosion, or even death.
2. Voltage and moving parts around motors and motordriven equipment can cause serious or fatal injuries.
ALWAYS disconnect power source before working
on motor or its connected load.
3. Motor MUST be securely and adequately grounded by
a method approved by the NEC and by local codes.
4. DO NOT use this equipment in a hazardous location
as defined by Article 500 of the National Electrical
Code (NEC).
INSTALLATION:
1. Carefully unpack and inspect the unit for shipping damage.
2. Bolt the SS-18 to the floor or to a sturdy, rigid table.
3. Connect the power cord to a properly grounded power
supply, rated for correct voltage and amperage output.
4. Store unit in a clean, dry, indoor location when not in use.
SS-18 shown with SSA-22
MAINTENANCE:
Read and completely understand all safety instructions before
performing maintenance on the SS-18.
Disconnect power and allow motor to come to a complete stop
before performing maintenance or inspection.
A. Periodically inspect the apparatus, checking for the
following:
1. Dirt accumulation.
2. Unusual noises or vibration.
(Continued on back.)
Rev: 09/25/2018
PHONE: 800-444-1508 P.O. Box 200, Lewis Center, Ohio 43035-0200 FAX: 80 0 -2 55 -5314
740-548-7298 E-mail: customerservice@gilsonco.com Website: www.globalgilson.com 740-548-5314

3. Overheating.
4. Worn or loose couplings, sheaves, and belts.
5. High motor current.
6. Overheated electrical connections.
b. Re-oil intermittent duty units every two years.
c. Re-oil occasional duty units every five years.
This motor has no thermal protection, so automatic restart
is not a hazard.
7. Loose mounting bolts.
8. If any of these conditions are present, repair the SS-18
before operation.
NOTE: The stroke of the SS-18 is determined by
mechanical parts installed at the factory and cannot
be changed. Please contact Gilson if you have
questions.
B. Even though the materials of construction are chosen to
be maintenance-free, periodic cleaning and lubrication will
prolong the life of this unit.
1. Grease Nylatron shuffle bearing block and guide rails.
a. Use a high-quality, light grease, such as a silicon-
based or polyethylene-based lubricant, that will
not dry out.
b. Grease fittings are provided on either side of the
unit, just below the washing vessel platform.
ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES AND REPAIR PARTS:
• SSA-22 Washing Vessel
• TSA-169R, TSA-169RF Digital Lab Timer
• RPSS-18-4 V-Belt
• RPSS-18-2 Clamp Knob
• RPSS-18-3 Cover Assembly
• RPSS-18-8 Rubber Rim for Platform
• RPSS-18-9 Set of Washers and Bushings for Top Clamp Bar
c. An alternative to the grease is to remove the grease
fittings and use the holes to apply oil (Tri-Flow or
Phil Wood Tenacious Oil) to reduce drag on the
bearing slide.
2. Apply same oil to the two brass bearings in the base
after you have wiped them off with a clean rag.
3. Check belt for wear and proper tension.
4. Do not use solvents to clean the unit. Some solvents
may attack motor insulation, finish, or bearing
lubricants. Some are highly flammable.
C. Recommended maintenance of motor:
1. Remove dirt accumulation in and around vent openings
by vacuuming. Accumulated dirt can cause motor
overheating and a resultant fire hazard.
2. Perform periodic re-oiling of the sleeve bearings.
a. Use 30—35 drops of SAE non-detergent or electric
motor oil. DO NOT over lubricate.