The HD5xx Series utilizes linear rails and bearings along the X and Z axes of the gantry that require periodic cleaning and maintenance. Below are the suggested cleaning and lubrication schedules as well as instructions for greasing the X and Z bearings.
Daily or every 8-12 hours of use.
- Vacuum or dust-off machine and components including the Controller and router.
- Wipe down the rails with a soft cloth.
- Clean the leadscrews with a soft brush or vacuum.
- Lubricate guide rods and leadscrews with Teflon Silicone. Wipe off excess with a soft rag.
- Grease the linear bearings (more often if needed) - 6MM NOZZLE
Monthly or every 40 hours of use.
- Deep clean the guide rods and leadscrews with mineral spirits or another mild solvent to remove wood glue or resin from these surfaces.
- Once cleaned, Lubricate guide rods and leadscrews with Teflon Silicone Wipe off excess with a soft rag.
- Grease the linear bearings (more often if needed) - 6MM NOZZLE
Y Rails (under the machine) – Clean the round Y rails under the machine in the same manner as the X and Z rails. After cleaning the Y rails, spray on a "DRY" lube such as DuPont Non-Stick Dry Film Lubricant. After applying the dry lube, run the machine Y axis back and forth a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly along the rails. You can find similar products at hardware stores and home centers. Make sure it is the dry type, so it does not attract dust and buildup.
Y Bearings (under the machine)– The round linear Y bearings under the machine do not require greasing. Applying the dry lubricant to the round rails is sufficient.
X and Z Rails – Dust and debris build-up on the guide rails can have a negative impact on the performance of your machine, so it is important to keep them clean and lubricated. To maintain optimum performance, clean and lube the X and Z rails at least once every 8 hours of operation. While the machine is stopped, wipe off the rails with a clean cloth or soft brush. After cleaning the rails, lube the bearings per the instructions below.
X and Z Bearings – The two Z-axis bearings are located behind the router/spindle mount. The two X-axis bearings are located behind the Z carriage. (see pictures below). These four bearings require periodic greasing (see next page for details).
Grease fitting locations:
Mini Grease gun on grease fittings:
Applying lithium grease to linear ball-bearing carriages
- Attach the 6MM NOZZLE to any standard grease gun. Ex: 3 Oz. Mini Grease Gun
- Place the grease gun’s nozzle over the grease fitting located on the bearings. Apply slight pressure pushing the nozzle against the carriage’s grease fitting and squeeze the trigger in a slow and steady motion to apply the grease.
- Move the machine to its travel limits to properly disperse lubricant.
- Repeat step 2, two to three times to ensure grease has been worked through the entire bearing channel.
Alternative grease adapters:
Locknlube Recessed Fitting Adapter
LUMAX LX-1415 Silver 3-5/8" Needle-Type Adapter - grease fittings prior to January 2022 may be too narrow for this adapter.