[Sonic Mini] Replacing the Z-rod

For Sonic Mini

Removing the old Z-axis:

1. Remove the plastic cover, the vat, and the building plate.
2. Select TOOLS > MANUAL > 10mm to raise the T-plate to a higher position.
3. Turn off the printer and unplug the power cable.
4. Turn the printer upside down and remove the bottom cover.
5. Remove the LED cable and motor cable from the mainboard.
6. Remove the top black plastic cover by loosening the 2 screws.

7. Unscrew the T-plate by loosening the 8 screws.

8. Spin the Z-rod clockwise to lift and remove the T-plate.

9. Use a piece of tape to secure the Z-axis and to prevent the linear guides from falling off.

10. Lay the printer on its side.

11. Loosen the ➌, ➍ two screws on the platform.

12. Remove the Z-rod from the printer.

​​​​How to install the new Z-axis:

1. Tighten the ➌, ➍ two screws and install the Z-rod back in place.
2. Spin the Z-rod counterclockwise and install the T-plate back onto the Z-rod.
3. Tighten the 8 screws on the T-plate
4. Tighten the top black plastic cover.
5. Reattach the LED cable and motor cable.
6. Install the bottom cover back.
7. Plug in the power cable, and turn on the printer.
8. Done.

Part 1: How to remove the old Z-axis

Step 1: Remove the plastic cover, the vat, and the building plate.

Step 2: Make sure the building plate on the Z-axis has retracted completely. If it hasn’t, click TOOLS, and then click MANUAL; click on 10mm several times to retract the building plate. 

Step 3: Turn off the 3D printer and unplug the power cable.

Step 4: Flip the 3D printer and remove the bottom part of the printer with an m3 Allen wrench which is included in the toolbox.

Step 5: Remove the ➊ LED cable and ➌ motor cable from the mainboard.

Step 6: Remove the black screws on top of the Z-axis. 

Step 7: Tape around the Z-axis and the Z-rod to prevent the linear guide from falling off.

Step 8: Remove the ➏ ➐ two screws holding the T-plate.

Step 9: Turn the Z-rod clockwise and then remove the T-plate. Make sure to press your thumb against the bearing sleeve to prevent the springs from bouncing out. 

Step 10: Lay it flat to prevent the Z-rod from dropping. Remove the four screws, then remove the Z-rod. 

Part 2: How to install the new Z-axis:

Step 11: Place the Z-rod back in place and tighten the screws in a cross pattern order.

Step 12: Place the T-plate back onto the Z-rod. Make sure you’ve pressed your thumb against the bearing sleeve while turning the z-rod counterclockwise.

Step 13:  Tighten the ➏ ➐ two screws holding the T-plate.

Step 14: Tighten the black screws that are present on top of the resin 3D printer. 

Step 15: Reattach the ➊ LED cable and ➌ motor cable.

Step 16: Place the bottom back onto the 3D printer and tighten the screws.

Step 17: Turn the 3D printer upright. Plug in the power cable, and turn the 3D printer on.

Step 18: Perform the LCD test to ensure that the LCD is functioning properly.