-Some noise is customary when the laser stage is moving in the X-Y plane. A ringing sound of sorts.

-After extended use the noise gets louder and more like a squeak, suggesting a need for lubrication. Occurring once in 2011 and again in 2020.

-The stage is partially disassembled to lubricate moving threaded parts.

-A stage axis is moved by a stepper motor turning a long threaded drive screw that is screwed into the moving block. The threaded surfaces are the ones in need of lubrication. We used white (probably lithium) grease supplied in a convenient syringe by the manufacturer, Danaher Precision Systems. A long 2+ inch 18 gauge or bigger Luer-lock needle works well for putting grease where fingers can't reach.

-The X- and Y-axes assemblies are an integral unit, where warranty-voiding seals must be broken to disassemble further. NO SEALS ARE BROKEN in the process (yet.)

-The offending noise X- and Y-axes have much finer threads than the separate Z-axis assembly which is for focusing.

-Most if not all of the procedure can be done with 5/32, 3/32, 5/64, and in. hex wrenches. With long T-handles are helpful.

-Disassembly summary:
   Remove box with laser and optics
   Remove counterweights
   Remove z-axis stage
   Remove box that holds counterweights and z-axis stage
      These four flat pieces can remain assembled
   Remove x/y stage from base
      The smaller base piece can remain attached to the big one

-Disassembly is mostly straightforward except:

    -The lead counterweight is removed by first removing the outer rails that constrain its guide pins. Swing the weight outward and lift the weight off of the cables that hook through slots in the upper guide pins.

    -The Z-axis assembly can then be removed from its vertical mounting plate by moving the stage by hand upward to access the bottom bolt holes, then moving the stage downward to access the upper bolt holes. Remove the bottom ones first.

    -The big baseplate and smaller baseplate directly on top have no need to be separated.

    -The box that holds the counterweights, z-axis motor, and laser is made from four flat pieces. There is no need to separate these.

    -The X/Y-axis assembly can be removed from the smaller baseplate by moving the X-axis to one side and then the other to access the mounting bolts beneath it (as for the z-axis).

-Application of grease entails moving a stage to one stop and applying grease to the threaded drive screw in the opening exposing the other stop. Move the stage to the opposite stop and repeat. Move each all the way to each stop, to ensure distribution of grease along the entire length. We did two cycles of this for each to ensure ample lubrication.

-Reinstalling the counterweights is cumbersome. Either find a second pair of hands to help out, or find two lab jacks and a piece of stout sheet metal as pictured in photos PC300180.JPG & PC300181.JPG.