Anet E12, E10 and others; X-Axis upgrade.

thingiverse

I sought to overcome the limitations of the Anet E12 X-carriage. I've tried several modifications, but they have failed, most relocating the lower wheel to the middle. This approach works only if you use metal for the carriage. If you print the X-carriage with the lower wheel in the middle, the heater block can soften that mount, and the wheel bolt starts to tilt, causing the carriage to come loose. I've found a way to upgrade without breaking the bank – it just requires time and effort. Here's what you'll need for this project: 1. 450mm Linear Rail Guide with MGN12H Carriage Block (available on Amazon) 2. M3 Heavy Duty Sliding Slide in T Nut (100 Pack) for 2020 (available on Amazon) 3. M3 x 8mm Alloy Steel Hex Socket Button Head Screws Black (available on Amazon) 4. Hardware listed in my Anet E12: X belt tensioner project 5. 2GT-6 belt (available on Amazon), as the stock belt may not reach the new location for the x-axis stepper motor 6. M3 screws of various lengths and nuts 7. Print one of each part. If you have only one 3D printer, print all the parts before starting the next step. Assembly: 1. Remove the x-carriage and x-carriage rail. 2. Install the Linear Rail on the 20x20 x-carriage rail with M3 8mm bolts and HD rail t-nuts (snug up only). Align the end of the linear rail with the end of the x-axis rail, placing the extra length on the side with the x-axis stepper motor. 3. Ensure the rail is centered on the 20x20 rail before tightening all the bolts. Take measurements to confirm it's straight down the middle. 4. While the x-rail is off the printer, resync the Z-axis screws by following my Z-sync project and jumping down to "After getting the z-sync installed." 5. Install the new rail. 6. Mount the x-stepper motor offset bracket and stepper motor, possibly needing to turn around the timing sprocket for alignment. 7. Install the x-axis belt tensioner. 8. Assemble the two larger printed carriage parts, then attach them to the carriage block using the belt immobilizer. Before tightening, slip the two ends of the belt under the immobilizer, ensuring it's running through the tensioner and not twisted. 9. Mount the two small rail guide parts – one for the x-axis homing switch. 10. Install the hotend. 11. Level the bed. 12. Print a cube, print a benchy, and enjoy your upgraded printer!