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Process for aligning Z rods?

Posted: Mon Mar 13, 2017 4:21 pm
by insta
I'm converting my machines to bottom-endstop, and I'm finding that the rods are misaligned just enough that its too stiff in the last 1/4" or so, so the Z motor isn't strong enough to move the assembly anymore. I'm very willing to bed it's just misalignment, since all of my machines are used / rehabs and have been shipped multiple times (it's not a lubrication issue).

What is the process for aligning the rods? I've loosened the two screws that hold the bottom clamp to the frame, and dropped the Y axis down. It's smooth when doing this, but as soon as I tighten the clamp back up, it gets really stiff again.

Re: Process for aligning Z rods?

Posted: Mon Mar 13, 2017 8:44 pm
by zemlin
I replaced the rods in my machine a few weeks back. Not a mechanical issue - it's a long story I won't try to tell.

The clamp blocks for those rods being solid top and bottom aren't going to be very forgiving. Have you tried loosening one or both of the bearing blocks in the slide? I haven't, but maybe they have enough play to absorb the difference.