Maintenance - Is it bad for the printer to stay long without use?

[apicalreform 1]

Hello everyone,

We acquired the printer not long ago, however we are not having time to use it as often as we wished.

We were wondering if there is a maximum time to "not use" the printer so we can do maintenance accordingly. eg: is recommended to run the printer at least once every two weeks.

Thank you

[neotko 1,417]

If you do atomic pulls to remove filament residue on the head and keep the machine covered to avoid dust on the shafts it should be more than ok. Also oiling the shafts to keep all in order it's always nice.

[Labern 775]

a;so try and keep the filament in a sealed container or make sure it stays dry and dust free

[LePaul 354]

Get the sewing machine oil and lubricate the rods.

I forgot to do so after 6 months of disuse. While it worked, it was NOISY!

I just use a small piece of cotton (cotton ball), dribble some oil onto it and work it around all sides of the rod. You'll notice you clean some debris off. Again, just a little goes a long way! Disable the steppers and slide the print head around.

[apicalreform 1]

Thank you all. That was really helpful.

Just one last questions. If I use it every couple weeks, is it enough to keep it "oiled"? I don't want end up lubricating the shafts and the rods too much.

[Labern 775]

It should be OK. You will know when it's drying out to much as the shafts blacken off a bit.

Oiling is a part of regular maintenance so just do a quick check before printing every time.

[LePaul 354]

What labern said, you'll see and hear when the shafts need it!