Milling Machine Z Axis Head...Difficult To Raise and Lower

[snub]

I have a King Canada KC20VS milling machine, which is virtually identical to the Grizzly G0704. It seems to take a lot of effort to raise, and even to lower the head (I thought gravity would help). I greased and oiled everything that I could access, and backed off the gib a little, but it hasn't gotten any better. If I crank the handle fast it will make a hellish screeching noise, like bare metal on bare metal would. It also seems to bind a little worse in the center of the travel.

I'm wondering if it's just old age setting in, or if others are experiencing the same difficulty. Also, I would like to remove the gib and see how it is wearing. Are there any precautions to take if I do this. I don't want the head falling off!

[chipenter]

Sounds like the Z leadscrew mount and gears are dry http://cdn0.grizzly.com/manuals/g0704_m.pdf .

[RussellT]

It may be that the leadscrew nut mountings are loose.  That would make the nut tilt and bind.

On some mini mills (mine is similar but not identical) there is a hole in the back of the column that should enable you to see the nut.

Russell