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Noisy X-axis maintenance advice  

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CJ Davies
(@cj-davies)
Active Member
Noisy X-axis maintenance advice

I've been the (mostly) happy owner of a MK3 since May, but my printer has been slowly developing a worsening case of what seems to be a fairly common issue with the X-axis; where the belt twists &/or always sits on one side of the X-axis idler (due to the top & bottom not running parallel?), causing squeaking/grinding/clicking noises & rubbing of the belt (evidenced by a build-up of black rubber dust in the X-axis idler assembly).

You can see the twisting of the belt in this video -

And how the top & bottom don't run parallel in this video -

I've found a lot of threads discussing this issue, with a lot of possible solutions. However I was hoping that somebody with experience of the issue could summarise/give me the 'best practice' approach to dealing with it. From looking through all of the existing threads, I've come across a whole bunch of different things that purportedly might fix my problem, but a more definitive answer (if there is one!) would be much appreciated.

While my printer still seems to print fine, the noise is now sometimes so bad (like fingernails on a blackboard) that I'm now resigned to dismantling it for a thorough service. Before I do, I have a few specific questions in addition to any general advice about addressing the issue -

1.) I have already printed a new R3 X-axis idler assembly in PET-G, in case when I dismantle the printer I discover that the current R3 part is worn & needs replacing. While I still have the printer assembled, is it worth printing something like this modified version of the X-axis idler assembly that claims to address the issue? I'm suspicious about the lack of comments, has anybody tried this? https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2939488

2.) While I still have the printer assembled, would it be worth printing a new X-axis carriage back plate with belt access? This doesn't need to be black, right? https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2727523

3.) When I have the printer dismantled, it would seem a pity not to upgrade the extruder parts to the new R3 B7 parts, however I don't have any black PET-G or ABS. Is there a known good source in the UK/EU to buy these parts printed, or a community favourite 3DHubs outfit?

4.) Where can I buy a replacement X-axis idler bearing/pulley? I am half expecting to find the bearings in the current one to be bad when I disassemble.

And lastly just to answer some basic questions that may get posed -

Yes, my X-axis motor pulley is mounted the correct way on the motor shaft (teeth toward the motor body).

Yes, my X-axis tension is within the recommended range.

Posted : 02/12/2018 1:19 pm
Mustrum Ridcully
(@mustrum-ridcully-2)
Honorable Member
Re: Noisy X-axis maintenance advice

In the EU just go back to Prusa for parts
if you are in the USA
these folks have the best selection of real Prusa parts on this side of the pond
https://www.printedsolid.com/products/prusa-idler-replacement

Posted : 02/12/2018 7:39 pm
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