Anet A8 z-axis Synchronize with 1 or 2 Motors

thingiverse

This is a modification of the Anet A8 printer frames to synchronize the two z-Axis motors. This update builds upon the Anet A8 Z Redux - Synchronized Motors design by uanCarlos_3design, available on Thingiverse under http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2097301. I experienced ongoing syncing issues between the left and right sides of my z-axis. Rewiring the two motors in series provided some relief but did not resolve the problem entirely. Eventually, I attempted to use neoxM3's frames; however, my z-axis screws were too short. My solution Given that the z-axis screws were too short to extend above the previous one-piece frame plates, I divided each plate into two components. This modification lowered the front half of each plate, allowing the rods to extend high enough to connect the pulleys. Even with this adjustment, I had to further extend the rods by pulling each out of the flex collar as far as possible and then pulling the collars up from the motor shafts as far as feasible. With this design, the right motor is no longer essential but can be left attached. The pulleys on the left side are designed so that the belt wraps around the geared pulley over 80%. The rear pulley sits in a slot within the frame, enabling it to be adjusted for optimal belt tension. I discovered that if both motors are attached, the belt does not need to be excessively tight. After taking the photos, I extended the slot under bearing "D," providing more range for setting the belt tightness. Required parts: "A" - 2 qty-8mm gt2 geared pulleys "B,C,D" - 6 qty-623ZZ 3x10x4mm Ball Bearings Shielded Radial Bearings. 3M screws and top and bottom washers to allow bearing rotation freely. *C* - 1 qty-3D printed guide pully "E" - 2 qty-7mm x 3mm ID standoff washers (3D print yourself) "E" - 2 qty-Rod hold downs (printed or ANET original) "F" - 2 qty-KFL08 8mm Mounted Block Cast Housing Self-aligning Pillow Bearing DT 4M screws and nuts 1 qty-Closed Loop 852 to 860mm x 6mm Width GT2 Timing Belt 8 qty- 3M screws to join the two halves using pre-threaded holes. (I apply hand soap to the threads for easier screwing.)