Which lubricant to use on a TAZ 4 Printer

General LulzBot TAZ
1

Hey all!

I was previously using Singer All Perpose oil for lubricating the X and Y poles on my TAZ 4 Printer and using a silicone based lubricant for sewing machines for the Z screw poles.

However, neither work particularly well, and I want to know what everyone else uses on their TAZ printers.

Cheers

  • Corgi.
2

I know as a fact prusa sells it

3

Do you mean this one? Lubrication set | Original Prusa 3D printers directly from Josef Prusa

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4

I actually meant prusa lube but sure that could also work I willl be sure to keep a open mind

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5

Okay I will have a look for prusa lube!

Thank you!

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6

The smooth linear rods should not be lubricated. The Drylin linear bearings are self-lubricating, and putting oil on them may accelerate them degrading by having a bad chemical reaction.

The threaded rods should be cleaned and greased. I use Lucas branded stuff in a “lifetime supply” tube: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Lucas-Oil-8-oz-Lithium-Grease-in-White-10533/202535870

The lubricant that you linked on the Prusa site would be fine for the threaded rods, but again - do not lubricate the smooth rods. Wipe them clean with a clean cloth, and if they get worn down, they should be replaced.

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8

Yes that’s a generic version

9

So, I Probably made a catastrophic mistake by lubricating the Linear rods with singer all purpose oil. I noticed some residue on the linear rods after lubricating the rods over a few weeks but dismissed it as dust in the air (I was refurbishing my bathroom and that was throwing out lots of dust). After not using the lubricant for a few weeks the residue has essentially vanished.

However, The carrage no longer moves entirely smoothly and tends to judder when changing directions. Does this mean I would have to change the bearings?

Cheers.

  • Corgi
10

You might be able to clean them off. Petroleum-based oil or ones with PTFE don’t damage them (but don’t help), but Singer All-Purpose is a mineral oil.

You can get new drylin bushings, real ones are a little tricky to get in small quantities in the right size, and I can’t vouch for the knock-off versions you can find on amazon.

You can replace the drylin bearings with standard bearings as well. They’re noisier, but the Igus Drylin bearings are made to fit a standard bearing form factor.

The original part #s can be find in the bill of materials: https://download.lulzbot.com/TAZ/4.0/production_docs/TAZ-BOM-Guava.xlsx

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11

Thank you! This is really helpful! I’ll have a play around and see if the bearings are good and then I’ll get some more if they arent! Cheers.

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