Today while printing our SP 20 started making a metallic dragging sound. It stops when the motor turns off and gets louder when the carriage is at the feed board with the rollers down, when there is pressure on the ink drum. I suspect that it’s because the chain is stretched or loose and is hitting something but I can’t see well enough to confirm. I kept the motor on to quickly clean the press but want to solve this before printing again – I don’t want anything to get damaged. I’ve attached a few videos IMG_0442 IMG_0445
I’m not sure how to best access the motor if that is required to get to the chain. Or where to get a replacement chain if need be.
Any help is welcome! Thank you!
I understand that NA Graphics doesn’t have an X-15899 replacement chain. You’ll have to order from a general parts supplier link, e.g., Grainger or McMaster-Carr.
The chain will have a master link. Disconnect it and look for the stamp on the side of the chain. It should read <41>. Then measure the length; it will, of course, be a bit longer than what you want to replace. Note: If you were to simply remove a link and attempt to reconnect, the chain would be too short.
In any event, you will need to remove the non-operator’s side sheet metal panel. There are screws and alignment tabs.
If you need to access the ink motor, you will also need to remove the sheet-metal shelf. The motor mounting may be slotted, allowing you to adjust the chain deflection.