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Linear rails

The G1 uses linear rails with carriages to guide the X and Y axes. They provide smooth, precise motion and are the foundation of print dimensional accuracy.

Overview

Section titled “Overview”
  • X axis: single linear rail guiding the extruder carriage
  • Y axis: two parallel linear rails guiding the gantry
  • Z axis: linear rails guide the vertical motion as well — the Z lead screws drive the height while the rails constrain the motion. Lubricate and inspect the Z rails on the same schedule as XY
  • Rail type: MGN-style profiled rails with recirculating ball carriages

Maintenance

Section titled “Maintenance”

Lubrication

Section titled “Lubrication”

Linear rails require periodic lubrication to prevent wear and noise.

  • Lubricant: light machine oil or PTFE-based rail grease — not lithium grease (that is for Z lead screws)
  • Interval: every 3–6 months under regular use, or whenever motion feels rough or squeaky
  • Procedure:
    1. Power off the printer
    2. Move the carriage to one end of the rail by hand
    3. Apply a few drops of oil to the top of the rail, along the full length
    4. Move the carriage back and forth several times to distribute lubricant
    5. Wipe off excess with a lint-free cloth

Inspection

Section titled “Inspection”

Signs that rails need attention:

  • Rough or sticky feel when moving the carriage by hand (power off first)
  • Squeaking during prints (distinct from Z lead screw squeaking)
  • Ringing / ghosting on print surfaces at specific frequencies
  • Visible rust or scoring on the rail surface

Alignment

Section titled “Alignment”

Rails must be parallel and square to each other for accurate prints. After shipping or moving the machine:

  1. Power off the printer
  2. Move each axis by hand to both extremes — motion should feel equally smooth at all positions
  3. If one side binds: check that all rail mounting screws are evenly tightened
Section titled “Related notes”