offsetting layers on the first layer

[lt-artard 0]

Hi all, I just finally received my ultimaker 2 yesterday set it up, did the robot test print and half way through the print it shifted over a 1/4in to the right (nozzle shifted) and printed the rest just fine. ever sence I can't get past the first layer, it does the outline sometimes fine then the first layer fine(sometimes), the next layer is offset. I don't know why, I adjusted allen screws as much as I can without stripping them, I am not sure if it is the gcode or hardware. any help would be great, I just want to print with this beautiful machine. thank you.

 

[gr5 2,172]

This is very common. It's always one of the 12 pulleys. Since you say "to the right" it's the X axis so now you only have to worry about 6 pulleys and 2 of them might be connected - I forget. Anyway the most likely one is the one on the motor. I know you said you tightened almost to stripping them but:

1) Did you get the one on the x motor? Back right corner. The cover comes off the motor if necessary with just 2 screws - very easy.

2) You want that one tight as hell - the allen screwdriver should be twisting quite a bit. Then make sure you get the other ones. The second most likely problem pulley is the second pulley on the short belt which is the one just above the motor. The other 4 pulleys are rarely a problem as they have half as much force plus two of them have to fail to get a shift.

 

[gr5 2,172]

These are metric by the way - I think 2mm. So if you have the wrong hex wrench (in inches) don't do anything until you get the right one.

Oh and if you want to prove me wrong you can mark the shaft of the motor and the pulley with a tiny dot and see if it moves when the problem comes back (do all 6 pulleys while you are at it).

 

[lt-artard 0]

That worked, I have to thank you I didn't even think of doing the motor screws. thank you again