D.o.a

[rjp736]

Well, put my new Z board in got one carving done then BAM! Halfway through my second carving the machine just plunged into the wood and I mean it slammed into it. Loaded another board and as soon as it started....same thing, slammed right into the wood. Thank God it didn't snap my bit(s). Anyone ever have this happen? Looks like it's back on the phone with CW in the morning.

[liquidguitars]

rjp736

I would start with software, is your card flashed with 1.119 firmware?

Then look at the bits/chuck for damage, loose or bent cutter shafts and or collets can make the CW cut deeper. Are the bits or spindle louder when up to speed that before? That can be a sign for a bent shaft or two.

Lig

[rjp736]

It carved my first project (1 1/2 hrs) with no problems. Second project was going fine......I have all the latest updates on my card.

[Jeff_Birt]

What's a Z board? Your symptoms sound like a Z-axis encoder problem.

[Digitalwoodshop]

Or a loose cable in the Z area.

AL

[rjp736]

CW sent me a Z Axis motor board, replaced it but now I'm S.O.L

[rjp736]

It's the board that goes behind the Z truck

[Jeff_Birt]

The board behind the little black plastic cover? Sounds like maybe everthing is not plugged in, both ribbon calbes, board edge sensor cable (small connector on bottom) and the cable from the Z-motor itself.

[rjp736]

Yes that's the board I'm talking about. I'll take it apart again and check it. The first carving I did right after replacing it, everything went smooth with no problems. But Now it just slams down into the wood.

[Jeff_Birt]

Did you put anytype of adhesive on the large ribbon cable (after inserting and latching) to keep the connector from unlatching?

[rjp736]

A small dab of hot glue....I'll tear it down and check it. Thanks for your help I really appreciate it.

[rjp736]

Well, I took it apart and checked the connections and everything was connected. Man I was hoping to find an easy fix like a wire hanging.

[Digitalwoodshop]

Unplug and re connect the big flat cable. Do them all..... Please... :)

AL

[rjp736]

When you say big flat cable, which one are you talking about? The one on the board I just replaced? I'll try any help you can send me. Thank you.

[liquidguitars]

The flat cable on the back of the truck about 1" or so wide, gray like a smaller IDE cable.

Lig

[rjp736]

Thanks for the clarification. I checked them all and they're all seated properly. Something major going on with this machine this time. I can't believe how it just slams into the wood. I would assume they will tell me to send it in. Bummer too because I just spent some cash on the Vectorart 3D images. Oh well, as long as they fix it I'll be a happy carver. Just want to say I appreciate all the help from you guys.

[Crewdawg707]

I too just replaced the Z Drive, only they only sent me the motor, not a new board. Had to use the old one. Replaced it, ran 1 project and all was well. Loaded another board, same project and got another Z Axis stall. At least this time, it didn't slam into the board and break my bit like the last time. Have a call in to see what they want me to do this time. Had my machine since 24 Jan, carved total of 3 good projects, sent machine back 1 time, replaced the z motor. Love the machine, but its starting to get old of not being able to use it.

[rjp736]

I hear ya. I think I might just take mine back to Sears and exchange it for a new one....thats if I can dig up all the needed paperwork.