Squeaking VS-640

[kanini]

My VS-640 is running great, but one thing worries me, when running only 54" wide material (which the printer probably has done most of) the carriage gives a little "squeak" or "squeal" when changing directions at the end of the pass (only on the return pass). When running 64" or other width material it's running silent. I have also gotten some occasional scan motor errors but only very rarely. I've cleaned and lubed the rail with light oil (actually ment for HP rails but it should work) and no change. Is it the bearings, rail, belt or motor? I'm suspecting bearings since it sounds like it's coming from the carriage/rail. Is there anything preventive we can do or do I need to worry at all until it breaks down? It hasn't gotten worse or better with time. Thanx and hope your new year will be great!

 

[CS-SignSupply]

I would first look at the belt and the pulley assembly on the left side of the unit. Make sure the belt rides in the middle of the pulley while your machine runs.

It may be move up or down on the pulley and rubbing the edge.

Get with your dealer and check the Scan motor hours as well.

Your scan motor should be rated for 3000 hours, unless it the original motor release prior to 12/2011

 

[kanini]

Thanks a lot for the reply, the scan motor has only about 650 hours on it and hasn't been changed, so I guess it should be OK. I'll check out the belt and pulley!

 

[kanini]

Update: I checked the belt and pulley and it runs smooth and centered so it doesn't run up to the edge on the pulley. I cleaned and lubed the rail once again and run some more of the full width material and now the squeaking seem to have disappeared somewhat if not totally gone. I think it was some debris and/or insufficient lubrication that made the noise perhaps...? No more scan motor errors either bit those came so seldom it's hard to tell if it's solved. Good with the things that fixes "themselves", I'll keep an eye on the machine and if it comes back I'll have the Roland tech check it out on his next visit. Thanks again for the reply CS-SignSupply!