Can't Reference All Axes

Background

The 1300PL is unique amongst the Tormach line of machine. That is because the 1300PL features both servo motors (X and Y Axes) as well as a stepper motor (Z Axis). Another feature that is no longer found on our machines, is that fact that there is both an upper and lower Z limit switch.

To get the most out of your machine, the first thing that you need to do is reference the axes. This process causes the machine to move to the end of its axes and triggers a limit switch (for example, a momentary switch, a proximity sensor, hard stop to indexing, etc.). Until power is lost or there is a crash, the machine stores this location allowing full travel within the its envelope.

So, in the case of the 1300PL, both hard stop referencing, as well as a momentary switch, are utilized.

Tools

Metric hex wench set
Phillips screwdriver

Reset the Machine in PathPilot

Reason: The machine software must be reset.

From the PathPilot interface, on the Main tab, select Reset.
Reference your machine: select Ref Z, Ref Y, and Ref X

Disable Hard Stop Referencing (stuck on a limit switch (Z) or hard stop (X/Y))

Reason: The machine is stuck on a limit switch or hard stop.

From the PathPilot interface, on the Status tab, examine the axes' Limits LEDs.
Identify which axis is ‘stuck’ on a limit switch or hard stop, indicated by a green light next to the axis letter.
On the Settings tab, clear the Hard Stop Referencing checkbox. Then, on the dialog box, select OK.
From the PathPilot interface, select Reset.
Jog the axis away from the limit switch that it's on.
From the PathPilot interface, on the Settings tab, select the Hard Stop Referencing checkbox to re-enable the limit switches and hard stop homing sequence.
Reference the machines axes to prevent the machine from getting stuck again.

Inspect the Z Limit Switch and Harness

To check the condition of the 1300PL Z-axis Limit Switches, you will need to remove the torch head, and torch mount, and torch mount plate.
In the event that there is a damaged limit switch, the entire harness will need to be replaced. That process can be found here: Z-Axis Limit Switch Harness Replacement