Z Release button on a Contura

[[An...]]

Our ACCURA has a button on the side that when pressed releases the brake on the Z Axis allowing you to move the Z axis manually, does the Contura have the same button?

[[Ke...]]

Andrew, the Z brake release location depends on the model of Contura you have. If you know the model that would be helpful, or it can be identified from a picture of the machine if you can post that here

[[An...]]

The tag just has "Contura" for the model. There is another tag that says "Contura 12/24/8" It says MASS on the gantry and we have an XXT head. I can get a serial number if needed.

[[Ke...]]

Based on my guess of model, you most likely have a Z brake release that is in the form of a toggle switch tucked behind the Z cover near the probehead. Its location can vary slightly but is usually on the +X side of the probehead. I will see if I have one not in use I can take a picture of for you.

EDIT: Dave is correct, the switch I indicated is the X axis release, not Z

[[An...]]

I would appreciate a picture, I cannot find a toggle switch

[[Ke...]]

The first image is showing approximately where the switch is hidden, as viewed from the -Y position of the machine. The second shows the toggle itself. If these do not seem applicable, let me know

EDIT: Dave is correct, this is the X release, not the Z

[[Da...]]

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I believe that is the X axis lock. ( it is on our micura) They are looking for the Z axis lock on a Contura. (I have no clue where the Z axis lock is on the Micura either.)

[[Ke...]]

You are correct, that is the X-axis lock. It has been so long since I utilized it that I had forgotten. I asked one of our service techs and they indicated that the Z release may be behind that cover and require removing it to access. This has thankfully been updated on the newer 6206 Conturas, which have a hole in the bottom of the cover for direct access to the button, similar to other machines.

[[An...]]

I am not seeing the Z or X brake switch, It must be buried under all of the sheet metal. Is it possible to add a hole to the sheet metal to access the switch?

[[An...]]

I believe our Contura model is 6206, do you know where I can get documentation on removing the sheet metal?

PXL_20231130_132955172.jpg

[[Ke...]]

Andrew, you are correct that you have a 6206-this is most easily identified by the black X-beam. To access the Z brake release on a 6206 there is an added access hole on the underside of the Z cover, which does not require removal. It is faintly visible in the image you added, I will attempt to mark it in the image. It should be the larger hole to the rear, if you insert something like a small allen wrench it should be able to press the release button. It may require some fishing around, the button is not always perfectly aligned, but I just tested on 2 here and both worked.

[[An...]]

Yep we were looking right past it the whole time. Thanks!