Printer X axis rattle
I've got a small weird rattling that's only showed up in the past day, and now it's particularly noticeable on X axis movements. I can't quite figure out where it's coming from, it almost sounds like a loose screw, but I can't find any. It happens on X axis big movements and sounds like its either coming from the print head, or the right-hand-side of the X-axis gantry.
Here's a video of the noise - it's the rattling noise right at the end:
Thoughts?
RE: Printer X axis rattle
I can't think of what might cause that sound.
But here is an old mechanic's trick to track it down. Go get your longest screwdriver. Put the handle *against* your ear. Put the other end on a part you think might be making the sound. If you are touching the right part, you will hear the rattle VERY loudly. (The screwdriver conducts sound waves much better than air does.)
This might sound silly. But it is amazing how well this works. Here is a video that shows the principle.
RE: Printer X axis rattle
That's very clever! I appreciate the advice, I will definitely give that a try thankyou! 🙂
RE: Printer X axis rattle
I'll have to try the screwdriver. I have done something similar with a short (2 foot or so) piece of vinyl tubing (like a condensate pump would use). Hold one end up to your ear, and move the other around to where the noise may be coming from. Works a bit like a poor man's stethoscope.
RE: Printer X axis rattle
Yes, that works well, too.
RE: Printer X axis rattle
Yupper. In the old days, around here, we called it a Polish stethoscope. Completely legit. Grew up on beater cars from the 50,60s. Tricks like that determined if you drove home, or walked home.
oh, those days long gone. Back when cup holders wore a skirt, smelled like girl, and giggled at your dumb jokes.
I can't think of what might cause that sound.
But here is an old mechanic's trick to track it down. Go get your longest screwdriver. Put the handle *against* your ear. Put the other end on a part you think might be making the sound. If you are touching the right part, you will hear the rattle VERY loudly. (The screwdriver conducts sound waves much better than air does.)
This might sound silly. But it is amazing how well this works. Here is a video that shows the principle.
Don’t trust forum advice.