Ugh, that 3 AM overload alarm is the worst! Been there, done that. Here's my emergency sequence when I'm staring at a flashing Mitsubishi servo drive in the middle of peak production:

1. First, DON'T just reset the alarm blindly. Check the specific error code - Mitsubishi has different overload alarms (like Alarm 51 for overcurrent or E1 for overload warning). This tells you if it's electrical or mechanical.

2. Quick visual inspection: Look for obvious mechanical binding - check if something's jammed in the machine, bearings seized, or linear guides binding. Feel the motor housing - is it scorching hot?

3. Electrical check: Verify your U, V, W three-phase wiring sequence is correct. Loose connections or phase issues can cause false overloads. Check for damaged cables or insulation.

4. Parameter sanity check: Has anyone recently changed servo response settings? Overly aggressive parameters can cause resonance and false overloads.

5. Monitor load rate: If you can access the drive's monitoring functions, check if the motor load rate has been consistently over 80-100% before the alarm.

6. Mechanical isolation: If possible, disconnect the motor from the load and test run it. If the alarm disappears, you've got a mechanical issue downstream.

7. Emergency production mode: If you must keep running, consider reducing feed rates or cycle times temporarily while you diagnose. Sometimes a slight parameter adjustment can get you through the shift.

The key is systematic elimination - electrical vs mechanical, then work your way through the most likely culprits. That 3 AM panic makes us want to just hit reset, but that's how you end up with a burned-out motor or worse!