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12. Maintenance and troubleshooting
AxiDraw V3 family plotters should not require any regular maintenance under
normal conditions.
12.1 Troubleshooting plot area
If you should find that the AxiDraw does not appear to have access to the full
plotting area of the machine, double check that you have selected the correct
model of AxiDraw in §, on page 55.
12.2 No lubrication required
The X carriage contains wheels that allow the X shafts and Y parts to slide. The
wheels contain shielded and/or sealed ball bearing mechanisms that are perma-
nently filled with grease. The pen-lift (Z) stage uses grease-free Teflon-filled plain
bearings. Do not apply oil or grease to any of the sliding mechanisms.
12.3 Cleaning
Clean the AxiDraw only with a soft, clean cloth. The non-electronic metal parts
may be cleaned with a cloth moistened with soap and water if needed. Avoid
other cleaners and solvents. Do not wet the motors, cables, or controller board.
12.4 Storage
It is recommended to store the AxiDraw with the carriage either in the Home po-
sition or (especially if it needs to be put away in a box) in the far opposite corner,
fully extended in X and Y, such that the cable guides are fully extended and have
the lowest profile. Unplugging the AxiDraw’s plug-in power supply when not in
use will prolong the life of the machine.
12.5 Belt tension
The AxiDraw uses a single timing belt, looped in an “X” around the two motors
and the Y carriage. This belt may gradually stretch a small amount, and can be
re-tensioned where it is anchored, if necessary. The necessary hex wrench (2.5
mm) is included with the AxiDraw. Do not retension the belt unless it is actually
necessary to do so.
12.6 The wrenches
Several hex wrenches and two thin-profile crescent are included with the Axi-
Draw. One of these – the ball-end 5/64” (2 mm) wrench – is used for switching
the pen between the vertical and angled orientations. The others are provided
in case more significant adjustments are required; they are not needed in most
circumstances. However, if something should come loose, it is nice to have the
right tools on hand. Contact technical support for guidance if needed.
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