Xzero Raptor CNC build - linear rail and ballscrew selection

[Mattia]

So I've dry-assembled the gantry (all the mechanical bits except for the currently missing X axis ballscrew(s)). I was hoping I might be able to convert at least the Y axis to 2:1 belt drive as well (placing the motor on a bracket on the to-be-built gantry brace) but the ballscrews I have feature some pretty non-standard machining. Both ends are simply turned down with a retaining C-clip in a groove on the floating end, which is a nice snug fit in the holder; the fixed end is apparently only 'locked' in place by the flexible coupling, no retaining nut of any kind. Since the coupling can't fit through the machined holes as is (the bolt stick out just a little, need to file a small corner into the frame so it can pass), the Y axis is particular simply slips back and forth. The fixed ends do have a tapped hole in the end. Not very reassuring in terms of being able to adjust for backlash.







Thoughts? I guess this works well enough considering there are quite a few of these machines floating around out there, but it isn't super reassuring. I'll use 'standard' FK/FF machining and supports for the X-axis. But I may request a quote for a new Y axis ballscrew at least.