Crane V6 Direct Drive Extruder Mount

thingiverse

Update: Added Version 3a. This model features a BL-Touch on an adjustable bracket, resulting in improved overall rigidity and adjustability. The V6 Clone hotend comes equipped with a BMG clone extruder, paired with my own custom-made bracket inspired by this design https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3739291. This setup is specifically designed to be mounted on the versatile quick-release carriage found at https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3369444. To attach to the QR mount, I utilize this clever solution https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3728176. The design boasts slotted holes that enable effortless height adjustment of the entire assembly and the extruder within its bracket. I opted for a V6 clone from Gulf Coast Robotics but would not recommend it; instead, I replaced the heat break with a higher-quality one and prefer using a cartridge thermistor setup. Additionally, I acquired both all-metal and Bowden versions of the heat sink, finding that the latter (with the connector clip removed) functions better when paired with a short segment of PTFE tube. Furthermore, I modified a low-cost BMG clone by drilling it out to 4mm, ensuring a continuous piece of PTFE from the extruder's gears to the heat break. Although this design is operational, I believe its performance could be enhanced by relocating the BL-Touch to an adjustable mount situated on the opposite side of the stepper motor. The original design, depicted in red, employs a 30mm fan supplied with the extruder. However, my mainboard was configured for 5v fans; since I didn't have access to a 5v 30mm fan, I created the V2 model using a 40mm fan linear to cool the extruder (shown in blue). In addition to the Extruder, V6 Hotend, PTFE tube, and BL-Touch, you will require an assortment of bolts and motor wire extensions. A handful of M3D's distinctive molex wire connectors and crimps are also necessary. I redesigned this several times before arriving at the current iteration; as a result, many wires remain longer than needed, leading to somewhat haphazard cable management. Eventually, my desire for order will prompt me to trim these excess wires to something more reasonable.