FaanTastic RV Fan Crank Handle Replacement

prusaprinters

I built this to replace a broken crank handle on an older model, manual Faantastic (brand) RV roof vent and fan.   The original handle has since been upgraded on newer models, but this should probably fit those too. Please do let me know how it works on a newer unit!   The original on mine was pretty small and a bit weak, which led to its destruction, and when creating the replacement, I wanted something larger, and that would help me drop the vent cover in the event of a freak rain storm..   Printing notes: I printed mine with Monoprice PLA+ which was awesome when they were still making it, and I never had any issues with it breaking down or getting melty in the summer heat.  You can try a more robust filament if you like, but I've had pretty good luck with PLA+ in automotive applications..   Print Orientation is the same as the final mounting orientation (big, flat side down), although this does put the layer lines in an orientation that could cause the part to shear if you are really rough with it.  No supports requiredI printed my original at 15-25% infill BUT, it felt a little flexy when I was cranking the vent up and down.  I'd recommend heavier infill, like 60-75% to give you more material inside the part.. No brim should be required unless you're using some other material that's causing issues.Quality notes: This part prints pretty quickly, so no need to blast it at 200 miles an hour.   Slower speed will get you better quality on a new printer. Installation notes: This mounted with the original screw. The hole at the top of this handle was made round, however the post that it mounts on to has a flat spot that's designed to stop a handle from turning.  I made this when I first started 3D modelling and I didn't have the skills to make it match exactly.  The work-around was to heat JUST that top end in a pot of hot/boiled water, and then press it on to the crank post to make a snug fit.  This worked well for me for years, so should be fine for you too! :) Usage Note: Originally I'd intended for this to crank up AND down with a single finger in one of the holes on the handle. In practice, I found that the resistance from the weight of the vent cover made the part flex and wobble too much, so I generally turned this crank from the outside with all five fingers to crank it up, and reserved the finger holes for dropping the vent in rapidly and that worked like a charm. Also, this was designed for a FaanTastic brand fan, but it should work on any other type of RV air vent with a 6mm(ish) recessed crank handle post. Fusion 360 and STL files are included so feel free to modify for your own purposes. Designer's note: Happy Printing!   If you have any trouble, suggestions or feedback, please send me a note.  I'd sure like to know if you print this and it works on any other vents, and/or the newer FaanTastic models, so please do let me know if you print it, and what you used it on!