GT2 - s2m 6mm Belt Tensioner

thingiverse

This part is specifically designed for experienced printer owners who know how to maintain belt-driven systems. I take no responsibility for any damage caused by incorrect usage of this part. I was inspired by a strong belt tensioner design found on Thingiverse, but unfortunately, I'm unable to recall the original creator's name or details. If I come across the original designer, I'll link to their work here. This is my version of the belt tensioner for the ctc 3D printer (eBay special) and possibly other systems using a 6mm wide GT2/S2M belt. This belt tensioner provides an easy way to adjust the tension of open-loop belt systems commonly used in makerbot clone markets and others. It's essential to note that this is a pass-through tensioner for open-loop belt systems, not a joining or connecting type of tensioner. Using this kind of tensioner makes adjusting the belt as simple as twisting it and turning a bolt when servicing or maintaining your printer. **Warning:** Over-tightening these parts will cause premature wear and damage to your printer's components. I learned this the hard way by over-tightening one of these tensioners, resulting in a cracked gantry end plate during my first print. This can happen to bearings, belts, and other parts if not used correctly. Pre-assembly of the tensioner: 1. Insert a 12mm M3 bolt through the top of the tensioner, wind on an M3 hex nut, and tighten it down by turning the bolt while ensuring the nut aligns with the cutout. 2. Wind the bolt almost all the way out, leaving just enough room for the captive hex nut to stay in place. Installing the Tensioner on the belt: 1. As you rebuild the belt system, feed the belt through the tensioner with the bolt pointing upwards (for CTC Rep Dual). Once you have plenty of belt fed through, push some back inside to create a loop and insert the belt guide bar. 2. Line up the two parts so they slide together, then start pulling the belt tighter. 3. To tension the belt, twist it 90 degrees and turn the bolt. Repeat this process until you feel resistance when twisting the belt. **Important:** If you can't twist the belt by 90 degrees, it's likely too tight. Slacken off the bolt to reduce tension. Once happy with the belts, ensure the gantry completes a full lap of the Y axis without catching. Now that you've installed the tensioner, you're ready to print as much as you want!