Anet A8 Z stepper alignment indicator

thingiverse

On Anet A8, left and right Z steppers frequently get misaligned, skipping a step. This usually occurs when screws aren't running smoothly or if the printer isn't assembled/aligned perfectly. I experienced this problem on almost every print when I first got my Anet A8. However, after getting things running smoothly, it only happens sometimes, typically during long prints or when moving the printer and changing filament. The indicator shows whether left and right steppers are aligned with each other or not. If they're not, you can easily realign them. When your printer is tuned correctly, you almost never need to realign the steppers. However, if it does happen, you should fix the problem by cleaning, lubricating, aligning Z lead screws and rods. To use this device with your Anet A8, print two rings and two bases. On both Z axes, place the ring part on the lead screw and attach the base part with one screw on the printer (as seen in the photo). The ring should be tight but still able to turn on the lead screw. Align left and right carriages with calipers or a ruler and level your bed (as you usually do). When everything is perfectly level, home the Z axis, and adjust the dials on both axes so that they are pointing at each other. When turning the ring part on the lead screw, ensure that the steppers are locked. Now the dials will show you the perfect position of your Z axes. From now on, when one of the steppers misses a step, you'll see it right away. To realign: - Home the Z axis - Turn one axis while holding another with your other hand and adjust so that both dials are aligned - Home the Z axis again This device fits perfectly on my Anet A8 purchased in February 2017.