Machine Maintenance

General Maintenance Tips

Applying Lubricants

Don't mix lubricants.

Clean lubricated items (such as the linear rails) if you are going to add a new type of lubricant.

If you are adding oil from the first time, it's likely that you're changing lubricants, so we recommend cleaning away the original lubricant with isopropyl alcohol first.

Every 100 Uses

Crossbar Rail

The crossbar rail is upside-down, directly exposed to fumes from the nozzle and heat, which can dry out the lubricant and leave a thin layer of particulates.

Run your finger over the surface of the rail. If you take off a layer of debris, clean the rail with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol, then apply a dab of machine oil (such as Super Lube 60004) on each end and run the crossbar rail back and forth its length of travel.

Belt Tension

Check that both belts are tensioned evenly, within 1[Hz] of each other.

Tension on both belts should be at least 60[Hz].

You can measure the frequency of the belt pluck with a smartphone tuning app.

XY Motors

Check that neither XY motors have come loose from their four attachment screws.

Check that both set screws on each motor are tight, and that one setscrew is tightened onto the flat part of the motor shaft.

Every 500 Uses

Z Axis

Check the shim below the Z axis coupler on each Z motor. Replace them if they have worn thin. Otherwise, hit them with a light dab of machine oil.

Check the Z leadscrews for debris. Clean them with isopropyl alcohol and then reapply a coating of white lithium grease.

X and Y Axis Rails

If these rails show signs of accumulated dust, clean the rail with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol. Then apply a light dab of machine oil (such as Super Lube 60004) to both grooves on each carriage, and run it back and forth its length of travel.

Remote Elastic Lock

Check the lock for signs of wear. Ensure that neither the wire cinching screws, nor the Fixed Pulley Hub set screw have come loose. Re-tighten if necessary.