This guide offers a simpler alternative for changing gearbox oil on Grizzly planers like the G1021Z, avoiding long tubes or pumps. It details needed items and step-by-step instructions, including draining oil via the drain and fill plugs, removing covers, and refilling through a cap screw hole with a small funnel. Teflon tape is used on plugs for sealing. This method saves time and requires less specialized equipment.
This guide provides an alternative method for changing the gearbox oil on your Grizzly planer. While the example below references the G1021Z, the same approach applies to many Grizzly planers. Your manual outlines the standard procedure, which works well, but some customers find it challenging because it requires a long tube and funnel or a pump to reach under the head casting.
The method below is simpler and requires less specialized equipment.
Items you will need to get started:
- 1 quart 80-90 weight gear oil
- A catch pan for the old oil
- A small tipped funnel
- Teflon tape
- Gloves & Safety Glasses
- Old Rags (preferably ones you have used or do not care to use in the shop)
- Hand tools (wrenches, hex key, &/or allen wrenches)
Instructions:
- Disconnect the machine from power. Wear gloves and safety glasses for protection.
- Position your catch pan under the gearbox to collect the old oil.
- Remove the drain plug from the bottom back corner of the gearbox using the correct wrench.
- Remove the fill plug located under the main head casting on the front side of the gearbox. This helps the oil drain faster.
- Remove the dust hood and the top cover of the planer.
- Locate the four normal size cap screws that hold the gearbox to the main head casting.
- Remove one cap screw and use that opening to refill the gearbox.
Insert a funnel and pour oil slowly until it begins to come out of the drain plug. - Wait for the oil to stop draining completely.
While waiting, clean the plugs and wrap them with fresh Teflon tape. - Reinstall the drain plug with Teflon tape applied. Do not reinstall the fill plug yet.
- Add oil through the cap screw hole using a small-tipped funnel. Pour slowly until oil appears at the fill plug opening.
- Stop adding oil and wipe away any spills.
- Reinstall the cap screw, then replace the top cover and dust hood.
Clean the fill plug, apply Teflon tape, and reinstall it securely.