[Histonet] Sakura Coverslipper Timing

[Chris Pomajzl]

Histonetters:

We have 2 Sakura coverslippers that are in desperate need of some TLC, maintenance and repair. They are 7+ years old, and have been used and abused for all of those years. They are shared equipment between Histo and Cytology. Therefore, there has been 7 years of PAP juice buildup. Our in-house BioMed tech retired a couple of years ago, and ever since, we have used a local BioMed company that does not have much experience with these machines. They would come out and temporarily fix any problems, but it would only correct the problem for a week or two.

As a result I have to do much of the maintenance and repair myself. I am somewhat mechanically inclined, but I have my limits. I finally disassembled one of the machines last week so that I could remove all of the disgusting build-up that was covering all of the parts. I was able to put it back together, and it appears to be in good working order, except for one problem. I cannot get the timing of the solenoid in sync with the lever arm that allows the receiving basket to drop one notch of the basket at a time. The service manual explains how to fix the timing, but I don't know that I understand these directions clearly. It just doesn't make much sense, and I simply am not sure I am doing it correctly.

Does anyone have any experience who could offer some tips and advice? It would be much appreciated. We are in the process of replacing one of these machines, but that will take some time, I'm sure. And that still leaves me with one old machine.


Chris Pomajzl, BS, HTL (ASCP)

Histology Supervisor
Clinical Pathology Laboratories, Inc.
9200 Wall Street
Austin, Texas 78754
512.873.1660 (o)
512.873.5004 (f)
cpomajzl <@t> cpllabs.com

CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:  This communication is intended only for the use of the individual or entity to which it is addressed and may contain information that is privileged, confidential, and exempt from disclosure under applicable law.  If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that any use, dissemination, distribution, or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, please notify the sender immediately and destroy this communication.