My X-axis is cutting 1/8" of an inch to the left. I noticed that the bit would be off to the right and sometimes in the center of the bitsetter after the machine starts initializes and starts the bitsetter procedure. I also notice that with the machine off, and moving the X-Z gantry slowly to the left and right that motor hits a rough spot and stops, but not in the same place could be on the left side or right and in the center. I reset the bit setter again to the dead center to the button to see if that would solve the problem, but it did not. I checked all the set screws and belt tensions. I set my starting position to the center of the board and to the bottom left and was still off 1/8". The machine works, but it is not good when starting a job and not knowing if the work is going to be right on or 1/8" off center.
Thanks
Lance
You did not say what machine you have but if you have a mechanical problem that must be fixed before anything else is done. You could have loose v-wheels or something on your rails. You could have a damaged belt with teeth missing. If it is a machine that has ballscrews and linear rails maybe you need to lubricate them. Another thing to check is the set screws in your stepper motor pulley. There should be one set screw on the flat of the stepper and the other one on the round part. To verify put a black magic marker across the pulley from one side to the other through the center. Jog your machine side to side and front to back several times and check that your mark is still in line and not moving around. If it should be a set screw tighten them but some people remove the set screws and replace them with a cap screw. The cap screws are easier to tighten up and less likely to strip out. You may need to pull your belts off and very carefully check them for tearing or missing teeth.
As stated above you must fix your mechanical problems first. Otherwise you will be chasing your tail. The axis moving around is not normal and should not happen.
I have a Shapeoko 4 XL and this month is my 1-year anniversary. I have used it making some small items and make sure it is cleaned like new after every cut. I have checked all the set screws and belts as part of frequent maintenance. I really am trying to figure out why after homing the machine then installing a bit and the bitsetter measures. Why does it set the bit in the middle of the button and sometime to the right side of the button during different setups. Then it causes the cut to be off center by an 1/8" when it decides to move to the right side of the button. I have reset the bitsetter 3 times to the center of the button and still have the same issue.
Lance
Responded to your ticket — hopefully we can work out your difficulty via support.
This topic was automatically closed after 30 days. New replies are no longer allowed.