Allen Key ABL Probe for Ender3 Pro, stock parts

thingiverse

I was impressed by the simplicity of using just stock Z endstop for bed leveling on FreeABL. However, I never fully bought into a system that required inserting and removing printed parts to achieve levelness. After only a few uses, it started to wear down the edges. Another approach I liked was the allen key probe, but it didn't utilize the stock end stop. So, I decided to combine the benefits of both systems by designing an **allen key probe using stock Z endstop**. This is a quick and easy print project that doesn't require supports. To set it up, you'll need to create a longer cable (about 90cm) for the Z endstop and route it through the same path as the hotend cables. I'm using an allen key from the Ender3 Pro package, specifically the 2.5/3mm one. For instructions on configuring Marlin firmware, refer to the original FreeABL thing. Just remember to adjust NOZZLE_TO_PROBE_OFFSET according to your installation (mine are -39.5, 0, -5.47), but your values may be different. For information on the allen key's positions during homing/probing and printing (idle position), see the photos. Deploying the allen key into probing position is easy, as is pulling it back into idle position. I'm using this setup on my printer right now, and I'm extremely satisfied with the first layer results. Changing printing surfaces (I switch between magnetic PEI steel sheet and mirror) is also a breeze – just swap them out, no need to manually adjust bed level or Z endstop position. **Update 07/2020**: I've since switched my Ender3 to Directdrive with BLTouch, so I've abandoned this allen key probe. You can access the Tinkercad design below and make any necessary modifications.