distortion

[imsmooth]

In the past I was printing a basic box. The prints came out close to perfect. I did not use the M2 for many months. I just tried to print the same box and I keep getting a distorted object every time. The distortion is the same. It is as if the box has slid to the right and then back, causing a bend in the Z direction. I have included an image so you can see the effect. I currently have my extruder for ABS at 241 and the bed at 110.

The box's side should be perfectly straight, but one can see from the image this is not the case.

I should also add that this is only applies to the X axis having a shift. The Y axis is perfectly straight. That is, one pair of sides has the bending; the other pair of sides are straight.

[ednisley]

only applies to the X axis having a shift

Assuming that you're using the same G-Code file and not reslicing with new-and-different settings, then it's almost certainly a mechanical problem brought on by long storage.

Things to check:

• X axis linear slide lubricated (do 'em all while you're at it)
• X axis carriage moves smoothly by hand (with power off)
• Cable loom doesn't snag / bind / kink

The M2 works so dependably that we (well, I) forget it needs attention every now and again... [grin]

[imsmooth]

I'm thinking this is some software issue

The problem happens at the same place evey time
The cables are good
It happens right after the solid bottom layer is printed

How do I do a check on the slicer code?

[jsc]

It is very unlikely to be a software problem. You can verify by checking your gcode in a gcode previewer, either the one built in to your host program or http://gcode.ws/. I would be monstrously shocked if it were a slicing issue.

If your X carriage is looking good, check your extruder and mount. Is it mounted solidly, can you rotate it by hand at all off of vertical? Check your extruder mount for cracks.

[ednisley]

The problem happens at the same place evey time

Remember that the G-Code is always the same, so the motions will be the same and a mechanical problem will happen at the same place every time.

If you printed this exact G-Code file before you paused for a few months, then didn't change the file, it's not a slicing problem.

If the G-Code preview looks good, then it's definitely not a slicing problem!

What can change is the printer's mechanical response to the same commands in the same file.

If the X axis isn't moving smoothly, then the same acceleration that "used to work" can now require more torque then the motor can provide, which will result in missed steps. That can happen in both directions, producing the effect you see..

If the first layer prints more slowly than the rest, the problem won't show up until later, because the motors have more torque at lower speeds. Also, the model probably has different features a few layers up, so the motions and speeds will vary accordingly.

[Dale Reed]

Another problem that occurs is that the setscrew on the belt pulley on the X or Y axis stepper (or the one on the extruder drive gear) can work loose. From the look of the print, I don't really think that's the case here, but it wouldn't hurt to check that the belt drive pulleys are solid on the stepper motor shafts. You should have received the required allen wrench with your machine.

Others here (who print way more stuff than I do, like Ed, jimc, jsc et al) recommend, IIRC, some blue Loctite on the screws to help keep them from working loose.

(Ed, I'm surprised this wasn't in the list in your post -- you're slipping! Better get out the Loctite!)
Dale

[ednisley]

you're slipping! Better get out the Loctite!

Well played, sir!

[imsmooth]

After looking at the cradle like you suggested I found it was cracked. I have superglued it together, but I think I need to purchase a motor mount or print one.
Where can I get one here, and is there any g-code for printing one? I found some files on thingiverse. Is this the right stuff to use?

Thanks

[jsc]

Superglue it enough to last through one print, then print this in ABS: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:432956

You can also use the stock MakerGear version, but this one has shored up some of the weak points to keep it from cracking again.

[imsmooth]

Thanks. I found that file. How do I flip it 180 degrees in Simplify3d? I forgot how to do this so it prints correctly.

EDIT: I think I found it in model settings