X axis phantom crash
I'm trying to figure out why I am encountering a crash on X movement lately. The printer has been working well for about a year now. Nothing external has changed, this issue just started.
- It happens roughly near the center of the X axis, seemingly randomly.
- Nothing is near the carriage when it crashes. (Like in long travels after mesh bed leveling)
- It could happen during a print, first level cal., or auto bed leveling etc. - any normal speed long movement.
- As a troubleshooting step, I removed the rear plate of the carriage and tightened the belt a smidge - no change.
- X Belt tests will fail ~90% of the time. Sometimes it will only traverse half of the X axis in a belt test. Other times it will traverse more or 100% or it.
I am wondering if this could be a motor driver issue? I am not quite sure how to prove that though.
Thanks in advance for the assistance.
Ilum.
RE: X axis phantom crash
From your description - you have X axis bearing problems.
Power off and move the extruder from side to side. It must move freely with no binding. Both directions should feel the same.
For a test, you can put light oil on the rails. If it improves things, you will need to lubricate the bearings properly.
Another thing to try is loosening the screws holding the bearings in the extruder. If those are too tight, they crush the bearings.
If the rails are scored - you will need new rails and bushings. No putting back the metal the bearings carved out.
RE: X axis phantom crash
Wow it kinda sounds obvious now that you say it... It's a year old printer and I haven't lubed the rods or bearings... Ok I just ordered the recommended lube from prusa since I can wait a couple days.
Thanks!