Wasteboard Alignment

CNC Machines Shapeoko 3
1

Hey what do you think could be causing my drill holes for my wasteboard to be off ever so slightly. I’ve owned my Shapeoko 3 XXL since 2020 and I think every wasteboard I’ve made, which I think has only been about 3 has came out like this regardless of how I square it to the base

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First consideration — machine mechanically sound with all wiring in good condition and connectors secure?

Nothing interfering mechanically with the cut?

Precision has to start somewhere:

  • table level? (Not necessary, but it helps
  • do corners of endplates measure equal so that the frame is square?
  • Y-axis rails level and plumb and parallel to each other?
  • X-axis gantry level, plumb, and at a right angle to the Y-axis rails?
  • Z-axis carriage level and plumb?

See:

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3

I have an SO3 XXL and the only time I have had things go out of alignment it was mechanical. The odd thing is it is so consistent in what appears to be the X direction.

Since it is so consistent there must be something pushing your gantry out of alignment. If it were pulleys or v-wheels I think it would be inconsistent. Since yours is so consistent there must be something deflecting your X motion or possible the Y being pushed out of alignment.

Unplug your machine and slowly push your gantry right and left. See if there are any tight spots. If you find tight spots address the problem. Also push your gantry front to back several times. Maybe the gantry is bent but I would discount that because of the strength of the extruded aluminum rail. Do not push your gantry too fast or you will get EMF and will sound like the belts slipping.

Make sure something like a vacuum hose is not causing the alignment problem.

Just to make sure lift each end of the gantry and there should be no slack. Also lift your Z to check for any movement. If one end or the other lifts then adjust your v-wheels. Since this is so consistent you might want to remove your v-wheels and visually inspect them for any imperfections. Also inspect your belt for any problems but I also discount the belts. Never hurts to be thorough in your inspection.

Be sure to report back if you find a problem or post again if you cannot find the solution.

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