Just fixing up my Shapeoko 3 XXL after the X axis motor went out. It has been running good since late 2018 when I first purchased.
I went ahead and ordered a replacement motor from the Carbide shop last summer. Upon replacement and further inspection this week (it has been a long summer!) I noticed it is a different brand AND it does not have a notch or flat spot on the motor axle. This looks like a small detail but I am kind of worried that since it does not have one the set screw on the belt gear will not hold very well. It’s a tiny allen head set screw anyways.
So, is this a big deal?
Should I get a new one?
Grind it down myself?
What would you do to ensure the machine works well and reliably can pull the router side to side without slipping?
To be sure it does seem to work just fine moving around and is compatible though I haven’t cut anything with it yet.
Back before the machines had the flats, folks would:
put the motor in a plastic bag, w/ only the shaft poking out of a hole in the otherwise sealed bag
clamp the shaft in a vise
file a flat by hand or using a grinder
That said, it shouldn’t be necessary — if you wish, you can use an M3 SHCS instead of a set screw – there should be room for one which is 8–10mm and the larger head and longer tool afford more torque for tightening.
Thank you for the help. To stay consistent in the future with the motors is it kind of hit or miss if they come with the flat spot or not? Say, if I were to order in the future would these come with the flat spot?
