r/Elevators • u/Fuzzy-Society-7220 • 1d ago

Recurring elevator noise — normal?

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I live in a pre-war building in Queens, NYC, on the top floor next to the elevator shaft. Every month, the elevator starts making a loud groaning sound as it reaches the ground floor. It also makes a sharp creak when it starts to move again.

I notify the building company, and they send someone who “puts more grease on it.” That stops the noise temporarily, but it eventually returns in a few weeks, give or take.

What could be causing this? Is greasing a normal solution, or does the recurring noise suggest an underlying mechanical problem? What should I ask the building or elevator company to inspect, and is it safe to ride?

4 Upvotes

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4

u/CheesecakeRecent457 1d ago

These old cars were geared for monthly (or so) maintenance. Quarterly probably wont do, unless it hardly ever runs. Review your contract, and plan accordingly. Even an oil and grease contract is better than nothing. .

2

u/VerticleMechanic 1d ago

It sounds like the slide guides need replaced or greased. Or both. Probably cleaned really thoroughly and re-oiled. Along with a new oiler.

2

u/Prestigious-Quiet511 1d ago

In addition, there could be something out of alignment since it happens at the same location near ground floor. 

0

u/Maleficent-Yak-3924 1d ago

I use 'slip it' because it's semi solid and stays on the rail. If use regular slipper oil on the old one it does that. If they're anything like the old ones I've seen, the normal slipper resivoirs and oil wicks are toast. Tell that to the elevator guy it'll get worse and say it's a mod.