1300PL won't ref Z ... grinding sound

[Ron_Olson]

Hi all-

I have a new and interesting problem with our 1300PL. When you try to reference Z during table setup, the torch moves up, and I can hear a clicking sound of what I assume is the limit switch, then it just keeps going and there’s a terrible grinding noise which I assume is the motor being really unhappy to try to keep pushing the torch further than it can go. Since this is a shared tool in a 24x7 shop, I of course have no idea what happened or exactly when as I was out of town when it was reported to me.

I’m guessing the limit switch is somehow busted and needs to be replaced. I was looking at the manual and I guess the front plate comes off once the screws holding the magnetic plate to the front are removed.

I was wondering if anyone else has come across this issue and what they did to fix it. Assuming the limit switch is the problem, I guess that’s sending an email to Tormach to find out how much a replacement costs.

Thanks for any assistance!

Ron

[SamBollen]

@Ron_Olson If you open up the head and find a broken switch, then take a looke at this article on the replacement! Z Axis Limit Switch Harness Replacement. The replacement harness can be ordered under PN 51804 from orders@tormach.com!

[Ron_Olson]

Oh, perfect, just what I was looking for. Thanks @SamBollen !

[Ron_Olson]

As an update, I followed the instructions @SamBollen provided and found this:

Luckily we have a press brake and was able to get the part back to 90 degrees, confirmed the plate properly touches the limit switches, reassembled everything and now the machine refs Z again!

The general thought is that someone disabled Hard Stop Referencing and just kept trying to raise the torch beyond its limits. I suppose it’s an interesting testament to the power of the motor that it could cause the metal to bend like that; this is not a flimsy part.

Was glad to get the machine back online so we could get some jobs going. Thanks again for the help Sam!

Ron