EQ3-2 CW bar locknut spanner

thingiverse

After experiencing a super strong moment a few weeks ago, I managed to tighten the locking nut on my Skywatcher EQ3-2 counterweight bar incredibly tight, rendering it impossible to loosen with regular force. Refusing to resort to aggressive grip tools, I opted for a simple spanner instead, hoping it would work despite potential risks of damage during loosening. Printed at 100% with three shells in PLA, the design should prove stronger than ABS for its intended purpose and, to my surprise, worked remarkably well as I was able to loosen the nut quickly. Printer Details: CTC Rep dual Sailfished Rafts: None Supports: None Resolution: 0.20 / 0.25mm Infill: 100% Notes: I firmly believe PLA has a place in 3D printing, particularly for this type of application due to its increased spring and give compared to ABS. If you have some PLA on hand, I recommend giving it a try. The printer estimates using approximately 11.5 meters of filament (1.75mm), although the accuracy of this estimate remains uncertain. I printed this design using the remnants of two rolls of PLA that were sitting idle, awaiting use in another small project. The images show the print as half yellow and half white due to its mixed composition. While ABS may work for this spanner, I suspect the small lugs that lock into the nut might be too fragile and prone to breaking off during initial use. Feel free to experiment with ABS and share your results. Design Process: As usual, this design began in Tinkercad before being finalized in 123D, a tool that will undoubtedly be missed upon its eventual discontinuation.