Anycubic i3 Mega Linear Rail X-Axis

thingiverse

I created this mod for myself, but if it has helped you out, please consider a donation via http://bit.ly/Bart3d or the TIP DESIGNER button. Note: This write-up may not be complete. If you run into any issues, let me know. I made a minor change (0.5mm smaller bearing block) to the design which I have not tried yet. However, everything should be fine. Who this mod is not for: * If your i3 Mega prints like rubbish, this mod is not for you. The i3 Mega is a good printer out of the box. This mod will probably not help you improve print quality. Who this mod is for: * For those who like to tinker and can customize and flash Marlin. * If you want to use the E3d Hemera without sacrificing build volume. * For those not using the Hemera and can design their own mount using the provided STEP files. * If you need to replace the X-axis rails & bearings. This is an alternative replacement. * If your X-axis sags in the middle (often confused with a warped bed). This mod works best with a reverse bowden tube (see below for a link). The STEP file has been added so you can modify or view the complete assembly. General parts needed: * 370mm 2020 I-type extrusion (V-slot most probably will not fit as is) * 300mm linear rail and MGN12C carriage (with a small amount/micro pre-load) * 6 or 9mm wide 'Gates' belt (Stock one might be too short) * 6 or 9mm 'Gates' pulley * 6 or 9mm 'Gates' idler (the stock idler will NOT fit) * Mechanical endstop: the most common available style endstops * 2x decent clamping style lead screw couplers (if you have not yet already replaced the stock ones) Stock parts you can reuse: * 2x LMUU8 bearing (you can re-use the one from the X carriage you no longer need) * 2x Lead screw nut * 2x Lead screw * X axis stepper motor (**not verified though, and probably only with the 6mm belt.** I am using a non-stock motor) * Maybe some of the screws, I didn't keep track..... Hemera mount screws & nuts: * 4x M3x12mm screw to mount the extruder (do NOT use anything longer, or you will damage the Hemera) * 2x M3x10mm for the belt lock * 2x M3x10mm to mount the carrier to the MGN12c * 2x M3x18mm to mount the carrier to the MGN12c * 1x M3x30mm for the mechanical endstop trigger Motor carrier screws & nuts: * 4x M3x20mm hex socket screw (for the stepper) * 2x M3x4mm for the mechanical endstop * 2x M3x14mm for the lead screw nut * 4x M3x25mm for the bearing block * 4x M3 hex nuts for the bearing block * 1x M3x30mm for the mecanical endstop trigger * 1x M5x10mm hex socket screw (to mount to the extrusion) * 1x M5 slot 5mm spring loaded nut Idler carrier screws & nuts: * 2x M3x14mm for the lead screw nut * 4x M3x30mm for the bearing block * 4x M3 hex nuts for the bearing block * 1x M3x30mm for the mecanical endstop trigger * M5x10mm hex socket screw (to mount to the extrusion) * M5 slot 5mm spring loaded nut Idler tensioner parts: * M5x40mm hex screw * M5x25mm socket head screw (for the idler) * M5 lock nut (optional) Z axis motor and rod mount (see third pic) * 4 M3x12mm socket head screw * 1 M3x20mm socket head screw * 1 M3 hex nut Edit 1: Added a Z axis motor and rod mount, to replace the stock rod mount. This is to ensure proper alignment between lead screw and linear rod. This part is optional. My i3 Mega designs are in this collection: https://www.thingiverse.com/bartolomeus/collections/anycubic-i3-mega