TC820si Gib Adjustment

Inspect each gib to ensure it is flat, untwisted, burr-free, and free of oil passage blockages.

Replace any gibs that are scarred or damaged.

Never shim gibs—this does not produce acceptable results.

Do not clean gibs or ways with shop air, as it may blow chips into the sliding surfaces.

Gib wear occurs naturally over time due to carriage and bed friction.

After adjusting, jog the axis multiple times to help settle the gib.

Use a torque screwdriver when adjusting gib screws.

Torque spec for all gib adjustments: 1.2 Nm (11 in-lbs).

Loosen both setting nuts on the gib adjustment screw.

Use a flathead torque screwdriver to tighten the adjustment screw to 1.2 Nm (11 in-lbs).

Move the X-axis back and forth several times to settle the gib.

Retighten the adjustment screw to 1.2 Nm (11 in-lbs) after movement.

Repeat the process at least two times to eliminate any remaining gap.

Confirm the gib is seated by checking for smooth, consistent axis motion.

Do not overtighten—excessive preload can cause binding or premature wear.

Only proceed once motion is smooth and free of play.

Slowly turn the adjustment screw counterclockwise until it just contacts the gib’s upper edge.

Hold the screw in place with a flathead screwdriver to prevent rotation.

Tighten setting nut (2) while holding the screw steady.

Then tighten setting nut (1) to lock everything in place.

Verify the gib is snug by jogging the axis and feeling for resistance or looseness.

Repeat the process if motion feels uneven or loose.

Ensure both setting nuts are secure and properly torqued.

Do not overtighten—this may distort the gib.

Loosen both gib setting screws (1) by turning them 2–3 full turns counterclockwise.

Locate the gib adjustment screws on the opposite side of the carriage.

Using a flathead torque screwdriver, tighten the adjustment screws to 1.2 Nm (11 in-lbs).

Jog the X-axis back and forth several times to help settle the gib.

Retighten the adjustment screws to 1.2 Nm (11 in-lbs) after movement.

Repeat the adjustment and jogging cycle at least twice.

Confirm the gib is seated properly by checking for smooth motion.

Do not adjust both sides at once—always adjust one side while the other is loose.

Move the X-axis several times, then retighten the adjustment screws to 1.2 Nm (11 in-lbs).

Repeat the movement and retightening cycle at least twice to remove any remaining gap.

Check that the gib setting screws are still loose—this is normal before final tightening.

Lightly tighten the setting screws on both sides—do not overtighten.

Overtightening can distort the gib and cause binding or uneven wear.

Jog the axis to confirm smooth, consistent travel without stick or play.

Recheck all fasteners for proper torque.

Only finish the process when motion feels correct and secure.