Hi
I am curious about others who have upgraded to MISUMI (or equivalent) linear bearings instead of the polymer bushing/bearing on the TAZ5. I did a mod to replace the X-axis rods/bearings with 12mm, in an attempt to stiffen things to printer at higher speeds. The Y-axis is still 10mm. Not sure this was worth all the trouble.
The top surface or prints (and wide first layers) seem to not be as smooth. Each “line” has a sort of ripple pattern to it, down the length of the line. I had a couple thoughts. 1) This is new vibration caused by the engagement of the ball bearings as they contact the rod. 2) Newer firmware 1.1.5+ (on 1.1.9.x) have an issue with the stepper current causing the vibration (far out there I know, just a theory).
I just downgraded to 2015Q3 firmware which the printer came with (testing) and still noticing the “pattern”. So it rules out the stepper current theory.
TL;DR
Do others with these bearings notice the layer smoothness is not as great? I have checked all the alignments I can think of. (frame, belt clamps, stepper pulley, idler).