Problems with Robo 3D R1

So something more, looks like about every 5 layers the extruder jumps up about 1mm, extrudes a layer, and then goes back down to the layer it ought to be on.

 

Alright, I got one successful print. It was the 5mm cube steps print. The higher levels were a little more rounded out as opposed to being cubes. It is still a little rough around the edges...

however I was wondering, would getting a lead screw upgrade kit be worth the money it costs? What does that affect and does it

 

In MatterControl, click on Settings & Controls, then click on Controls. The very bottom of that screen shows Firmware Updates. If your computer is plugged into your printer, you should see the firmware version name. Never upgrade firmware using MC. I've seen too many issues there. Use the instructions on robos site as I am sure you already have found and used.

If you have 20 tpi (M8) threaded rods, you should be on RoBo3DR1V3.
http://guide.robo3d.com/Wiki/ROBO_3D_Firmware_Release_Notes

The new leadscrews are very nice. They are not just threaded rods. They are TR8*4 true leadscrews and are great. You can do it cheaper than getting them from Robo if you want. Couple options linked below. The main need for these are if you are experiencing z ribbing on your prints. Not sure what you have happening falls into that realm just yet. I'd tell you to search the forum about more info, but anything prior to the last upgrade to the forum that robo did doesn't show on search results.

http://community.robo3d.com/index.php?threads/amazon-sain-smart-lead-screws.7077/
http://community.robo3d.com/index.php?threads/alternative-to-the-lead-screw-upgrade-kit.7144/

 

Thanks Waldo. That really should just be a tag in red at the top of the Forum because that is the only way I can find anything anymore.