Surface · Rod Pump
Walking Beam & Samson Post
The long steel beam that rocks on a bearing at the top of the samson post, the A frame of the pumping unit.
What it does
Turns the rotation of the crank into the up and down motion that lifts and lowers the rod string.
Basics
| Motion | Rotary to reciprocating |
| Pivot | Saddle bearing on the samson post |
| Set by design | Unit size and stroke length |
Common failures
- Worn saddle or equalizer bearings
- Structural fatigue from overload
Troubleshooting
- Symptom
- Squeak or play at the top of the samson post
- Likely cause
- Worn saddle bearing
- What to check
- Lubricate and inspect the bearing