Z Plus Issues on Shapeoko 3xxl

Hey guys,

We are having a very new issue with our Z-plus on our Shapeoko 3 XXL. When the Z-axis travels low and close to the stock, it makes a grinding noise. Occasionally, it gets stuck there, forcing my partner to immediately shut down the machine and try to run the tool path again, no matter the file being run. I’m not sure if something is broken or if there’s some sort of debris somewhere in the mechanism. Any thoughts on what might be causing this, even on maintenance or lubrication, or any troubleshooting ideas will be so greatly appreciated. We are up against some show and custom order deadlines. I’m attaching a link to a video my partner made showcasing the issue as best he could. Please listen to and watch the full 30 second video as the noise doesn’t begin until several seconds into the video. Thank you so so much in advance! :blush:

Sounds like you may have something going on with the Z axis. I would suggest cleaning and lubricate the linear rails and bearings. Have a look at this video starting about the 3:36 mark.

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Before watching the video my response would have been “ when was the last time you lubricated the bearing blocks”.

After watching it sounds like a bearing block failure.

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What are your thoughts on how we should proceed? That’s an issue I’ve never had, so I’m unfamiliar.

See:

For Mobil Vactra No. 2 you can get:

https://shop.carbide3d.com/products/shapeoko5-maintenance-kit

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I would lubricate the bearings and rails and give that a try. It may help enough to get the work you need to get done off the table. As crunchy as it sounds you are probably looking at replacing the bearing blocks. If the linear rails are pitted or damaged I would give support a call.

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Excellent! Looks like we really screwed ourselves by not staying on top of this, huh? :face_with_peeking_eye: Anyone know if there is a good video on how to replace the HD -15 linear bearings on a Z Plus, by Carbide directly or anyone else for that matter?

You might ask them if they would rebuild it for you.