Z-Axis Movements

The z-axis frequently stalls when moving upwards. Movements may fail to complete, and in some cases the z-axis may even stall and then begin moving in the opposite direction.

1. Adjust the z-axis speed and acceleration

Try lowering the z-axis MAX SPEED and ACCELERATE FOR a longer distance.
You may try halving the default max speed and doubling the default acceleration distance as a starting point, but because every AgriBot installation is a bit different, you will need to experiment to find the best values for you.

Check the eccentric spacers on the cross-slide that are used to adjust the V-wheels that support the z-axis extrusion.
If the eccentric spacers are adjusted too tightly, then they will exert too much force onto the z-axis extrusion which can make it difficult or impossible for the z-axis motor to raise the z-axis.
With the AgriBot powered off, you should be able to rotate the leadscrew by hand without too much effort.
If the eccentric spacers are too tight, this will be very difficult to do.

It is possible that dust and debris can build up on the leadscrew causing additional friction between the leadscrew and the leadscrew block.
Clean the leadscrew with a rag and then add some lubricant which can be purchased from a local hardware store.
We recommend using a dry graphite lubricant spray which will coat the surface with a fast drying coating of graphite to create a slippery surface that reduces the resistance of movement through the leadscrew block and also may decrease any noise from the leadscrew.
We have found a product called Jig-a-Loo Graphite Lubricant that can help reduce friction on the AgriBot Z-axis leadscrew.
Here is a YouTube video that shows how the product is used and the typical applications.
Apply enough graphite lubricant so that the hue of the screw looks significantly darker than the original silver metallic color.
You should use enough graphite lubricant so that the screw should appear black or dark grey.
This will allow the screw to operate without friction and vibrations.
Please apply the graphite lubricant to the bottom 90% of the lead screw leaving the very top 10% unlubricated so that a sturdy grip can be applied to leadscrew by the coupler.