> >fail more often when not mounted in a flat position.  I know the
> >manufacturers say it makes no difference, but it sure seems to.
>
> Hmm. Maybe the dirt inside falls to the bottom and is recirculated every
> time the drive starts. If horizontal it would stay in the filter instead
> of falling out. Just a thought.

Peter,

My personal opinion is that the sleeve bearing in the motor can't stand all
the weight resting on one side.  Even with the drive spinning at thousands
of RPM's, it still bears the full weight of the platters against one side of
the bearing causing it to get "egg" shaped.  Whereas, when the drive is
mounted flat, the sleeve bearing gets the least amount (and the most
uniform) wear.  The thrust bearing under the platter assembly must be more
durable, or it sits upon a little ball bearing.

michael brown

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