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🛠️ Maintenance Guide: Lubricating the X/Y/Z Axes

Regular lubrication is essential for keeping your printer running smoothly, quietly, and accurately. This guide covers the proper lubrication procedure for the X/Y linear rails and the Z lead screw(s), following best practices for Bambu Lab-style printers.

✅ Prerequisites

Before starting the lubrication procedure, make sure you have the correct maintenance products:

Info

These lubricants are safe for 3D printer components and recommended for linear rails and lead screws. Avoid household substitutes.

Axis Recommended Product Frequency
X/Y Light machine oil Every 1–2 months or ~300 hours of printing
Z Grease (thick) Every 3–6 months or ~500 hours of printing

SmartPad Notifications

Your SmartPad will automatically show maintenance reminders (lubrication, cleaning, etc.). Check the System Notifications regularly from the main menu.

⚙️ Required Tools & Materials

  • Light oil (e.g. PTFE oil, sewing machine oil)
  • Grease (lithium, silicone, or suitable for threaded rods)
  • Lint-free cloths
  • Cotton swabs or small brush
  • Disposable gloves (optional)

🧼 Preparation Steps

  1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
  2. Manually move the printhead and bed to access all rails and screws.
  3. Use a cloth to clean old grease, dust, or debris from all mechanical parts.

🛢️ Lubricating the X/Y Axes (Linear Rails)

The X and Y axes move along linear guide rails with internal ball bearings.

Instructions

  1. Apply 1–2 drops of light oil directly on each rail.
  2. Manually move the printhead and gantry across all directions to distribute the oil.
  3. Wipe away any excess oil.

Don't Use Grease

Never use grease on X/Y rails. It attracts dust and can clog the internal bearings.

⚙️ Lubricating the Z Axis (Lead Screw)

The Z axis uses a lead screw that lifts the build plate vertically.

Instructions

  1. Locate the lead screw(s).
  2. Apply a thin layer of grease with a swab or brush.
  3. Move the bed up/down manually or via the printer menu to spread the grease.

Note

If old grease is dark or sticky, clean it off before applying fresh grease.

✅ Final Tips

  • Use only compatible lubricants for plastic and metal parts.
  • Don't over-lubricate — excess can attract dust.
  • Avoid products like WD-40, which are solvents, not lubricants.

📌 Maintenance Reminders

  • Add lubrication to your monthly maintenance checklist.
  • You can also view time-since-last-maintenance in the SmartPad's Settings > Maintenance menu.