Anet A8 lightweight and unobtrusive X-axis cable chain

thingiverse

Changelog:\r\nUpdate 4 (2018-06-17): added countersunk hole for chain fence\r\nUpdate 3 (2018-06-11): updated left motor mounts for different type of end switch\r\nUpdate 2 (2018-02-24): added chain fence\r\nUpdate 1 (2018-02-10): added info on possible z-axis problems\r\n\r\nThis is a lightweight x-axis cable chain mount solution for the Anet A8. Compared with other solutions, \r\n\r\n* its chain links are placed upright, thus allowing for less obtrusive position behind left z-axis,\r\n* it needs less material (filament) and prints faster,\r\n* it needs fewer chain elements (23), \r\n* although placed behind the z-axis, it is still compatible with Anet A8 exoskeleton by aeropic.\r\n* however, you might lose a bit of z-build space, see Update 1 below\r\n\r\nNote: My Anet is from December 2017, please take a close look at images for type 'A' and type 'B' switches.\r\n\r\n**Update 1 (2018-02-10):**\r\nI've been thinking about z>160mm problem for chains that don't coil perfectly like mine. I considered several approaches, but ended up with the most simple one: a fence which keeps chain from bending back to area where it could bump into lcd back panel. For now, I added standalone solution to be installed permanently beside carriage chain mount (`chain fence (standalone) v3.stl`). In order to keep friction to minimum, you'll need to thoroughly sand faces of the fence which touch the chain. Maybe you'll even have to sand corners of some of your right hand chain elements, if they are very sharp.\r\n\r\nAgainst my own expectations, I could not observe any negative friction effects on quality of my prints during my tests in last week. Nevertheless, I plan on adding another clip-on solution, which allows you to use fence only for higher prints on demand.\r\n\r\n**Update 2 (2018-02-24):**\r\n[Lethos1560](https://www.thingiverse.com/Lethos1560/about) reported problems due to different kind of x-axis end switch provided with his A8. This version of the switch has longer lever which will collide with motor mount, preventing switch from being triggered. I updated both versions of left motor mount with second set of mounting holes for end switch. Position 'A' is for usual kind, position 'B' for end switches with longer levers.\r\n\r\n**Update 3 (2018-06-18):**\r\n[Supernova_6969](https://www.thingiverse.com/Supernova_6969/about) pointed out that my original design of the chain fence needs a longer screw than default one and posted a remix with countersunk hole. Following his comment I updated my design accordingly using his measurements.\r\n\r\n\r\nPS: If you've wondered about changes in title of this thing, it's just my attempts at search engine optimization.\r\n\r\nhttps://youtu.be/TKg5vBGrwKg\r\n\r\nAll my Anet A8 designs:\r\n* [Anet A8 lightweight and unobtrusive X-axis cable chain](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2785408)\r\n* [Anet A8 slim and robust x-axis tensioner](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2802815)\r\n* [Anet A8 power supply cover with LCD power meter and switch](https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2815307)