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Cleaning and lubricating the Z-axis lead screw (Form 4L generation)

Over time, the anti-backlash nut on the Z-axis lead screw can degrade and leave a black residue in the grease on the lead screw. This debris can cause the build platform mount to stall or generate noise during printing.

Use this guide to clean and lubricate the Z-axis lead screw on a Form 4L.

Supplies:

Tongue depressor or similar tool to use as grease applicator
Rheolube 362HB lithium grease or similar lithium grease specifically intended for use with ball bearings
Paper towels
Soft brush, swab, or similar tool
Nitrile gloves

Estimated time: 5–10 minutes

Warning:

Resin may cause skin irritation or an allergic skin reaction. Wear gloves when handling liquid resin or resin-coated surfaces. Wash skin with plenty of soap and water.

Preparing the workspace

Overview: Prepare the Form 4L and a dust-free workspace for cleaning and lubricating the Z-axis lead screw.

Step 1: Remove the build platform

Remove the build platform first to avoid dripping resin into the printer cavity.

Step 2: Remove the resin cartridges

Remove the resin cartridges and close the vent caps to prevent resin from dripping off the bite valves and into the printer.

Step 3: Remove and store the resin tank

Unlatch the mixer and resin tank. Remove the resin tank and cover it with its lid. Set the tank aside on a clean, flat surface.

Notice:

Wear gloves and hold the resin tank by the tank grips on either side to avoid contamination or damage to the underside of the tank.

Step 4: Unplug the printer

Disconnect the power cable before continuing with maintenance. Do not perform maintenance on the printer while it is connected to power.

Warning:

Moving parts and lead screws present crushing and tangling hazards. Be sure that the printer is unplugged from its power source and powered down before interacting with the lead screw.

Step 5: Prepare the workspace

Clear a workspace around your printer. Ensure that the workspace is well-ventilated and free of dust.

Cleaning the Z-axis lead screw

Overview: Remove the contaminated grease from the Z-axis lead screw.

Step 1: Wipe the Z-axis lead screw

Gently wipe down the Z-axis lead screw with a dry paper towel.

Step 2: Clean the Z-axis lead screw threads

Cleaning the Form 4L Z-axis lead screw threads

Use a soft brush, swab, or other similar tool to clean out the Z-axis lead screw threads.

Step 3: Wipe the Z-axis lead screw

Gently wipe down the Z-axis lead screw again with a dry paper towel to clean any debris loosened by the brush.

Lubricating the Z-axis lead screw

Overview: Apply new lubricant to the Z-axis lead screw.

Warning:

Lithium-based grease may cause skin irritation or an allergic skin reaction. Wear gloves when applying grease to the Z-axis lead screw.

Step 1: Prepare the applicator

Place a small amount of grease on the tip of an applicator such as a tongue depressor or paint stirrer.

Step 2: Spread the grease along the lead screw

Applying grease to the Form 4L Z-axis lead screw

Using the applicator, spread the grease along the Z-axis lead screw.

Finalizing the repair

Overview: After cleaning and lubricating the Z-axis lead screw, perform final checks.

Step 1: Power on the printer

Close the printer door and connect the power cable to the printer and the power supply. The printer initializes.

Step 2: Test movement along the Z-axis lead screw

On the touchscreen, tap Settings > Tools > Move motors. The Move motors screen appears. Tap Bottom to move the build platform mount towards the bottom of the Z-axis lead screw. When it reaches the bottom and stops moving, tap Top to return it to its home position. This will further spread the grease along the lead screw. Ensure that the build platform mount moves smoothly, without making noise or stalling.