Z motor sounds different

[Spencer]

Hey guys. A couple days ago my Z motor started to sound different. Before it sounded like the normal "Errrrrr" noise. Now it's a quieter, "eeeeeee" noise. Is this a sign that the motor is dying? Thanks.

Spencer

[spiritbreaker]

I'm having a similar issue and just discovered my second failed overnight print.
Any ideas as to what's going on? I'm using esun pla + white 70 220.

[Phil]

When I first installed my dual extruder upgrade, the Z-knob would get pinched by the wires/extruder. It would make a funny noise as the motor would try to turn the Z-axis screw, but could not. I do not know, but I presume there is some kind of 'clutch' between the motor and the screw which produces that noise. Yours might be wearing out.

[ednisley]

some kind of 'clutch' between the motor and the screw

One of the great things about stepper motors is their simplicity: one rotating part, no brushes, and nothing to wear out. Absent gross abuse, a stepper motor will outlive you.

A couple days ago my Z motor started to sound different

That generally means a change in the mechanical load. Things to look at:

• Lubrication (how long has it been since you …)
• Misalignment (dropped, twisted, bumped …)
• Jamming (trapped wires, dirt, small parts …)

Basically, look for anything that's not quite right, then fix whatever you find.

[Spencer]

Ah, are you supposed to lubricate the z axis rods? I thought I read somewhere that you're not supposed to.

some kind of 'clutch' between the motor and the screw

One of the great things about stepper motors is their simplicity: one rotating part, no brushes, and nothing to wear out. Absent gross abuse, a stepper motor will outlive you.

A couple days ago my Z motor started to sound different

That generally means a change in the mechanical load. Things to look at:

• Lubrication (how long has it been since you …)
• Misalignment (dropped, twisted, bumped …)
• Jamming (trapped wires, dirt, small parts …)

Basically, look for anything that's not quite right, then fix whatever you find.

[ednisley]

are you supposed to lubricate the z axis rods?

IIRC, that depends on which version you have: check the appropriate doc for the recommendations.

The leadscrew needs some love, too, while you have the hood up.