[Sonic Mini] Replacing the Z-axis

Welcome to this guide on replacing the Z-axis for Sonic Mini. The Z-axis is an essential component that enables the printer to move the building plate up and down, allowing for precise layering during the printing process. Over time, the Z-axis may become worn or damaged, leading to issues such as layer shifting or uneven prints. 

In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to replace the Z-axis on your Sonic Mini, ensuring that your printer is operating at its best and producing high-quality prints.

1. Removing the Old Z-axis

Initial Preparations

• Turn off the printer and disconnect the power cable
• Remove the plastic cover, building plate, and resin vat
• Lay the printer down on a flat surface
• Loosen the 4 screws on the bottom case, and then open the case

Detaching T-Plate

• Detach the ① Motor connector, ② LED connector that are linked to the mainboard
  
• Unscrew and remove the plastic plate located on top
  
• Loosen the 4 screws that secure the T-plate to the linear guide, and lower the guide to prevent it from sliding off the rail
  

DO NOT remove the linear guide from the rail as it may damage the Z-axis

• Turn the lead screw counterclockwise manually to elevate the T-plate
  
• To prevent the anti-backlash nut from popping out, press it while turning the screw when the T-plate is almost at the top.

Remove old z-axis

• Loosen the 4 screws on the platform that is attached to the motor
  
• Take the Z-axis out of the printer
  

2. Installing new Z-axis

Placing the New Z-Axis

• Put the new Z-axis in position inside the printer.

Securing Motor Components

• Tighten the 4 screws on the platform that is attached to the motor.
• Attach the LED connector to the mainboard.
• Attach the motor connector to the motor.

Reassembling Bottom Components

• Reinstall the bottom case securely and turn the printer upright.
• Remove the tape for the sliding guide.

Securing T-Plate

•  Put the T-plate and turn the new lead screw clockwise to secure it in place.
• Tighten the 4 screws and secure the T-plate to the sliding guides.

Final Steps

• Install the metal block located on top.
• Install the building plate, resin vat, and UV cover.

Verify the functionality of new z-axis

• Proceed with z-axis calibration to see if the z-asix moves normally.

Once you complete the above examination, if the issue still persists please reach out to our customer support team for further assistance. When reaching out to us, please also provide us with photos/video of both the Motor Connections and a video for  Z-axis movement.

Contact Support

By following the above instructions, you can install a new Z-axis for your Sonic Mighty 4K. If you find any issues, feel free to reach out to Phrozen Support or your Authorized Reseller for further assistance. When contacting Phrozen Support, kindly send some photos or videos illustrating the issue.