How to Remove and Install SICK SKS/SKM and EKS/EKM Series Encoders

SICK SKx Hiperface and EKx Hiperface DSL encoders feature a threaded shaft that screws into the motor shaft. While their removal and installation is fairly simple, they can sometimes present with seized threads that make removal difficult. Please reference the below image from SICK for parts identification.

Removal Process

1. Lock the motor's rotor. This can be done by using the motor's brake (if equipped) or with a wrench to physically prevent the motor shaft from turning. Locking the motor with the TI-5260 and DC voltage is another option but may not be strong enough to hold. 
2. Remove both encoder mounting bolts (8). This allows the spring-loaded encoder mounting plate (3) to fall back and lock against the encoder shaft (1), thereby preventing encoder shaft rotation. 
3. Unscrew the encoder completely from the motor shaft. (turning CCW facing the encoder body). This may be done by hand but in some cases the threads are seized and require considerable torque to break free. SICK makes a tool (5) that mates to the encoder body and has a hex nut (7) for using a wrench which allows much greater torque to be used. 
    

Installation Process

1. Encoder installation is the reverse of removal. Simply lock the motor shaft and fully tighten the encoder back on the motor. 
2. Once the encoder is fully tightened, then release the motor shaft and rotate it until the encoder mounting holes are aligned, then install the two mounting screws (8).
3. Alignment of the encoder cannot be accomplished mechanically with these encoders. They only go onto the motor shaft in one position, where the encoder threads are fully tightened down. To align the encoder electronically, use the SET ANGLE feature in our software. We also have the ability to write new alignment angles into the memory data in the case of Rexroth motors.  

SKS/SKM Mounting Tool:
BEF-MW-SKX36 (2031079)

EKS/EKM Mounting Tool:
BEF-MW-EKX36 (2060224)