Squeaking Noise when I print

[Matthew Meyer]

My Replicator 2 has started making a squeaking noise when it prints.

The noise only occurs on one of the axis, and only in a certain part. It sounds like I just need to apply a little lubricant, but I am not sure where to put it, so I am hoping someone can help me.

I'm attaching a pic showing where the sqeaking occurs. It only squeaks when the Y-axis (I think it's the Y???) reaches a certain part on the rod that runs from back to front of the machine, only on the left side.

I've used the lubricant to lubricate the areas recommended in the maintenance guide, but this area was not one of them. Should I put some grease on that rod? Or somewhere else? Any thoughts?

Thanks!

[Eighty]

Yes, you need to lubricate the Y rods as well (both sides).

 

Looking at how badly your Y belt is drooping, I'd say you need to tighten it up just a bit. 

[David Celento]

Likely it's the black roller bearing on the left side, where the long X belt returns.

I used a single drop of multi-purpose 3 in 1 oil on each side of the roller seat with success, but some have suggested a lubricant that is specific for plastic. No idea what is better, though.

[Jetguy]

"No idea what is better, though. "

Ball bearings (not the cheap bushings that come on a $2K printer) for
one thing. Part 2 is that this is the best grease to use
http://www.amazon.com/Synthetic-Grease-Syncolon-Purpose-Lubricant/dp/B000XBH9HI/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368192308&sr=8-1&keywords=superlube
It's sold in most local hardware stores but is pretty common.

See, the part that should HIGHLY upset you as a new owner is that:
The machine did not come with any lube.
They don't sell it in the store
It shouldn't require it, the Replicator 1 which is cheaper uses ball
linear bearings and ball bearings on the shafts everywhere that do not
require manual lubrication. In other words, a superior system for less
money and less headache.

So while yes, the 2 and 2X look nice, the mechanics are just the
cheapest thing that MakerBot could shove out the door.
Seriously, you must ask yourself, how is it the the older bot has
better hardware, and a heated bed, and STILL sells for less?

[DHeadrick]

I have noticed the same thing with mine.  One the same side only one section of one axis.  Mine sounds like plastic creaking.  It hasn't hindered the printers ability to print, it is just loud and annoying if you're in the same room.

[Jay]

This happened right about 30 hours on machine. I put some of the PTFE grease on both sets of rods while powered off and then moved them full travel in X and Y several times. Worked fine and no more squeak or whistle.

NOTE: Have you done the 50 hour maintenance? You lube the Z rod and the cable bearings also. I found the 'use fingers to smear the grease on the Z' a little hit or miss. I have some PTFE grease that is probably overkill but I used an inexpensive disposable paint brush (1/4" wide...you know the ones that are just chrome plated metal tubes with brush bristles crimped on one end)...I used one and paper towels to remove the dirty grease already on there...then a fresh one to apply (not much!!) a new coat of grease.  I'd noticed that the grease I took off of it was really dirty and, after replacement,  I still get a bit of noise (zuuuzuuzuuuuzuu) as the HBP ascends or descends but not as much vibration.

YMMV...and I am NOT insinuating you can't do maintenance...just trying to cover all the bases...

Jay

[Matthew Meyer]

Wow, thanks for all of the tips, guys!

I'll try lubricating the Y rods on both sides. I still have a bit of the grease left over that came with my Makerbot (and I ordered a tube of the stuff Jetguy linked -- thanks!).

I have done the 50-hour maintenance, and I don't seem to be having any trouble with the Z axis. I've learned how to clean the drive gear and tighten the plunger. I'm well over 150 hours of use now and still occasionally learning what to do to best maintain it, but for the most part I am having pretty good success.

I suspect the squeaking will disappear once I've lubricated the rods.

Also, how taut should the Y belt be -- and how do I tighten it?

[Jetguy]

I covered a rather lengthy post here too
http://groups.google.com/group/jetty-firmware/browse_thread/thread/65be06ec06bdf812
That said, the answer is well covered directly in this thread
http://groups.google.com/group/makerbot/browse_thread/thread/3448de22afe6f9ae

You should read both because there is backlash you cannot take out
that is built into the design on a Replicator 2 or 2X as discussed in
the first thread.
Technically, all current replicator series (1, 2, and 2X) will have
more backlash in Y than in X simply because X is a direct drive from
the motor and the Y has at least 1 extra belt, so you get double
backlash at a minimum compared to results in X. That's just the
machine.

[Eighty]

> Also, how taut should the Y belt be -- and how do I tighten it?

 

It should be tight enough to strum like a guitar string...as in making a musical note.  I could be wrong based on observing a single picture, but there appears to be a VISIBLE droop in the belt.

 

Even if you just tightened it "as well as you can", you'll be better off than you are now.  It will certainly take out some of the backlash.

 

[Jay]

On Friday, May 10, 2013 3:33:13 PM UTC-4, Matthew Meyer wrote:

Wow, thanks for all of the tips, guys!

I'll try lubricating the Y rods on both sides. I still have a bit of the grease left over that came with my Makerbot (and I ordered a tube of the stuff Jetguy linked -- thanks!).

Do all 4 rods (X and Y)...with the power off....then move them in all directions fast (not slamming them).
 

I have done the 50-hour maintenance, and I don't seem to be having any trouble with the Z axis. I've learned how to clean the drive gear and tighten the plunger. I'm well over 150 hours of use now and still occasionally learning what to do to best maintain it, but for the most part I am having pretty good success.

I just went past 150 hours too. If you start getting heater errors...check the TC connection on the Mighty Board. Check the copper wires where they split and attach to the green block on the lower right. I had a error...stopped...called MBI support and William had me check. Fixed it within 5 mins. It's a PITA to get those hair thin wires in correctly and tight.

I suspect the squeaking will disappear once I've lubricated the rods.

Did for me...lube ALL 4 rods...
 

Also, how taut should the Y belt be -- and how do I tighten it?

 

MBI: Tightening your X / Y bets video

There you go...

Jay