Airwolf3D HD extruder (hotend) modification

cults3d

Finally, I decided to upgrade my Airwolf3D HD printer to use E3D hotends for under $20 versus $200 from Airwolf. If you're going to buy a 3mm version of the E3D extruder, you'll only need three components: The assembly is done using the same M4 socket screws and nuts as the old hotend, along with the fan screws. Don't forget to install the fan that comes with the E3D hotend and position it so it stays inside the guides under the holder and cap. I connected the heatsink fan directly to a 12V power supply line to keep it running at all times when the printer is on. I added a duct that runs from the top fan directly to the part being printed, which was a feature I missed with the original hotend. The original extruder was difficult to uninstall from linear bearings and reinstall, but this new extruder base assembles freely on the bearings and requires nylon ties. If you're going to buy a 1.75mm version of the E3D extruder, you'll also need guide material, a material lock, and a material cap. Use the same fasteners from the old mechanism for the assembly. The push-in joint connector that comes with the 4mm teflon tube has an M6 thread, so you'll need to get a M6 nut and a couple of washers: one for the M6 (or 1/4") screw and one for the M8 (or 5/16") screw. Once you see the opening on the guide, you'll figure out how the assembly goes. Since the material pusher mechanism is completely redesigned for the 1.75mm version, it works wonderfully with flexible materials. The original one often jammed flexible filaments, so say goodbye to that problem. As shown in the photos, I used an old teflon tube as a guide for new tubes and cables that seemed too flimsy to me. However, this is not necessary.