quick question about lead screw

[japcarmaniac]

how critical is it for the nut for the lead screw to be exactly in the middle of the two guide rails? most designs im looking at have the nut right center to the two rails but i have seen some where it sits a little higher or lower.

[m_c]

It depends on the application, and what forces are affecting it.

Something like a cast iron milling machine with two linear rails, leadscrew position isn't going to make much difference, provided everything is mounted solidly.

Where as something like a flimsy aluminium framed router with unsupported rails, leadscrew position could have a major effect.
You ideally want the lead screw to be acting as directly as possible against typical cutting forces, however that isn't always practical.

[japcarmaniac]

thanks m8. im building a basic mdf router and still just simplifying my design as much as possible.