Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
Lubricating the threaded rod
You should lubricate the threaded rod on your Z-axis after every 50 hours
of printing. You should use only PTFE-based grease (some was included
with your Replicator 2). Grab both sides of the build platform and move
it to the bottom of the Replicator 2. Use a clean, lint-free rag (or your
finger) to spread the grease onto the threaded rod. Make sure you get
the grease inside of the threads themselves.
Adjusting the plunger
After 100 or more hours of printing, you might need to adjust the plunger
in the extruder assembly. The plunger pushes the filament against the
drive motor. If the plunger wears down and is no longer putting pressure
on the filament, your Replicator 2 may stop extruding. You can solve this
problem by making a small adjustment to the plunger.
First, unbolt the active cooling fan. The cooling fan is located on the left
side of the extruder and its held on with two 2.5mm bolts. After you've
removed the bolts, move the active cooling fan to the side. Push the fan
wire out of the way so you have a clear view of the black plastic drive
block. Locate the small round hole in the drive block. Insert a 2mm hex
wrench (included with your Replicator 2) into the hole until you feel it
seat itself in the set screw inside. Turn the hex wrench very slightly
clockwise, no more than an eighth of a turn to tighten the plunger. Reseat
the active cooling fan, being careful of the fan wires, and rebolt the fan
onto the extruder.
Cleaning the drive gear
The drive gear is the part of the extruder that pushes filament through
the extruder. When you make things with your Replicator 2, small pieces
of hardened plastic can stick to the drive gear. If you are having problems
with your extruder, cleaning the drive gear might help.
To clean it, first unload the filament from the extruder. Unscrew the two
bolts at the lower corners of the fan guard. As one piece, remove the fan
guard, the fan, the heat sink, and spacers. Keep these pieces together
and set them aside. Unclip the motor wires and pull the motor assembly
out. Find the drive gear on the motor shaft and use a makeup-style
brush, toothbrush, or toothpick to remove all the pieces of filament stuck
to the drive gear. Then, reseat the motor assembly, plug in the motor
wires and bolt on the fan guard, the fan and the heat sink. Reload the
filament and your machine should print as good as new!
