3. X-axis assembly

Relevant for:

MK3S+

Last updated 2 years ago

Difficulty

Very easy

Steps

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Step 1 Tools necessary for this chapter

⬢2mm Allen key for nut alignment

⬢2.5mm Allen key for M3 screws

Step 2 X-axis: x-end idler and motor holder

⬢For the following steps, please prepare:

⬢X-end-motor (1x)

⬢X-end-idler (1x)

⬢Linear bearing (4x)

The list continues in the next step...

Step 3 X-axis: x-end idler and motor holder

⬢M3x30 screw (1x)

⬢M3x18 screw (1x)

⬢M3nN nyloc nut (1x)

⬢M3nS nut (1x)

⬢623h bearing with housing (1x)

Step 4 X-axis: inserting linear bearings

⬢Insert linear bearings into the printed parts (X-end-motor and X-end-idler) as shown in the picture. Make sure the first bearing in each printed part is pushed all the way down.

DON'T TRY TO PUSH the bearings from the other side. There is a rim (smaller diameter of the hole).

⬢First pair of bearings should be in line with the top surface on both X-ends.

⬢Second pair of bearings should be seated on the rim (close to the lower surface) on both X-ends.

You can press the bearings against a flat surface for easier insertion.

Place two bearings in a way that the inner balls of the second bearing are rotated 45° compared to the first. This way you will achieve greater contact with the smooth rod. See the third picture for more details.

Step 5 X-end-motor: tensioner assembly

⬢Insert the square nut all the way in.

⬢Insert the M3x30 screw. For now, we need the screw just to hold in place. Do not tighten the screw fully. Leave a 2 mm (0.079 inch) gap between the screw head and the plastic part. We will adjust the final position later.

Step 6 X-end-idler: bearing assembly

ATTENTION: be very careful during the tightening, check the nut orientation and DO NOT use excessive force, you can break this part.

⬢Insert the M3nN nyloc nut in the X-end-idler.

In case you can't press the nut in, don't use excessive force. Leave the nut for now and proceed with the other components for this step.

⬢Insert the 623h bearing into the X-end idler.

⬢Secure it in place using an M3x18 screw.

Now, if needed, use the M3 screw to pull the nut in.

⬢Place your finger on the bearing and ensure it can rotate freely. If needed adjust the screw.

Step 7 X-axis: smooth rods preassembly

⬢Take remaining smooth rods and compare their length. For X-axis you need longest rods (370 mm).

⬢Linear bearing (3x)

⬢Permanent marker (1x) not included in the kit

⬢Several paper towels to wipe oil and grease from the bearing surface.

Step 8 Marking the bearings

⬢Wipe grease from the outer surface of the bearing with a paper towel.

⬢Position the bearing so that you can see two rows of balls. Like in the picture.

⬢Make a mark with a permanent marker on the outer surface of the bearing, in the middle above two rows of balls.

⬢Use the same procedure for the remaining two bearings.

We will use these markings in the upcoming chapters to achieve the desired bearing orientation.

Step 9 X-axis: assembly

NOW, PLEASE BE VERY CAREFUL! Gently insert the rod straight into the bearings, do not apply too much force and do not tilt the rod!

In case you manage to push out balls from the bearings, please count them. One or two balls are ok, if there are more of them, please consider ordering new bearings.

⬢Insert the rods with bearings fully into the printed parts. The holes in the printed parts must be clean. Inspect the holes inside for dirt or filament residue.

Insert the rods very carefully. Do not tilt the rods too much.

⬢Ensure the correct orientation of the parts and rods.

⬢There is a special opening in the top/bottom of both X-ends. Check if you pressed the smooth rod all the way in.