I am building the Big OX and the two beams for the x-axis meet perfectly on both ends but there is a small gap (about 1mm) in the middle. I can easily squeeze the two together and then the gantry runs smooth... but otherwise scraps a bit around mid point. I already tried loosening the screws and re-tightening with them clamped together but that didn't help. >> I just finished the x gantry and really don't want to take it apart to try flipping the beam... but if that's the way... Can I throw a small bolt & screw in the middle to keep them together? Thanks!!
The way I see it you have 3 options. 1. Flip the bowed beam. It should straighten out when fastened tightly to the Y-Axis plates. You may need to clamp the ends while screwing in place. 2. If you have a 3D printer, use some of these connectors. V-Slot connector 3. Drill and bolt together as you suggested. Make sure nothing protrudes into the gantry path. Options 1 and 2 involve taking apart the gantry assembly. Option 3 involves making holes in your shiny new machine. I went with Option 2 myself.
Thanks! I'll probably try the flip first then the drill... The connectors look cool but sadly no printer...
You really should bolt the two beams in the middle, whether you flip one or not. When the Z-axis carriage approaches the middle, the torque on the carriage will pull one side up and the other side down, causing the two extrusions to move independent of each other. Bolting them together will add quite a bit of rigidity to your system. I tell you this from experience.
Thanks for the tip Steve; I did flip them a few times and they are good... I will also throw in a few bolts...
