Description of Issue

The head fails to lower when using the crank.  Usually it sits in place and the crank clutch continues to click.

Possible Causes

Causes include: the red locking lever is engaged, the head is raised to the top of travel and stuck, the lowering mechanism needs lubrication, the crank handle is not engaging, the head is not level, the vertical guide posts are out of alignment, or there is damage to the cranking mechanism.

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check that the head is not already at the top of its travel (up against the side stabilizers).  Cranking the head beyond its highest useable height can result in it locking in a position where the head crank cannot lower it.  Releasing from this locked position it is very easy. The right side threaded leadscrew needs to be manually turned and can be accessed from the inside of the machine.  There is a hole in the leadscrew just above the traction belts.  Insert an Allen wrench or similar tool and rotate it in the clockwise direction to unlock it.  For detailed instruction and pictures, consult the Troubleshooting section of the CarveWright Operator’s Manual.
2. Verify that the red head locking lever is not engaged.  To unlock, make sure it is pushed back flat against the head casting.
3. Verify that the crank is engaging the clutch mechanism when rotating it.  It should be very hard to turn if the head is not moving down.
4. Clean and lubricate the four vertical guide posts and the two lead screws.  Clean the guide post and the lead screw with a dry rag and add liberal amounts of white lithium grease to these parts.  Crank the head up and down to work the grease into the parts.  Make sure that the head pressure is within limits before proceeding.
5. Check the level of the head by measuring from the top of the head casting to the underside of the plastic stabilizers on all four corners.  If there is more than 1/32” difference the head will need to be leveled.  Note that there is always a reason for the head to become unlevel and this cause will have to be found and fixed before the issue can be closed.  There are two problems that can cause the head to lose lever: a loose leadscrew nut or a loose/damaged gear on the tierod.  Please consult the document Titled Head Pressure – Adjusting the Head Level on the CarveWright website for detailed instructions.  This is not an easy procedure and can be very difficult for a customer to do in some cases and should be a last resort and only at the direction and supervision of a CarveWright support technician.
6. If none of the above steps solves the issue consult with CarveWright Service.