M2 Dual Extruder for M2 and E3D

thingiverse

This is my latest design for a dual extruder upgrade kit specifically designed for the MakerGear M2 printer's E3D V6 hotend. The primary objective was to integrate a continuous PTFE tube from the drive gear all the way to the E3D hot zone, ultimately aiming to enhance the printing of flexible filaments. To minimize weight and optimize space, one of the extruders has been repositioned as a Bowden setup, relocating it away from the printer's gantry. I decided against bolting the E3D hotend in place from underneath, opting for a split arrangement that maintains stability and ensures easy filament loading/unloading. This configuration offers numerous benefits: the hotend remains firmly attached to the gantry, reducing potential misalignments; feeding or removing filament becomes much easier; and, crucially, this design features extensive direct drive support, eliminating potential risks associated with bowden systems. Regarding potential drawbacks, I am actively seeking more refined approaches for a reliable tensioning system. Although it currently works adequately, optimal performance relies heavily on the operator's feel for tightening tension. The process involves guesswork to an extent, as initial settings can vary upon reapplication. Feedback and insights from experienced makers are highly welcome; I invite all interested parties to scrutinize this design closely. Please find a supporting video detailing key features at youtu.be/qAHeEA26nSM. I've uploaded the dual hotend version of this project to Thingiverse under: thingiverse.com/thing:824655. **Instructions** To begin with, install the standard-sized bearings originally supplied with your M2 printer. When attaching the bearing bolt, utilize a regular nut without washers; standard size 5x18 bolts should suffice for securing the bearings in place. Next, secure the stepper motor using 4x whatever size bolts fit comfortably (ideally 18mm); this prevents unnecessary mechanical stress on other components. For added safety, do replace or modify your printer's X-axis end switch to ensure proper alignment with the extruder setup. Regarding firmware updates: changes depend significantly on the age of your M2; therefore, I highly recommend referring to the MakerGear community forum for more information regarding required firmware adjustments. During initial trials with PLA material, we encountered overheating of the stepper motor mount leading to structural deformation; unfortunately, it was necessary to revise the setup entirely. An experiment with ABS filament proved inconclusive as a result of insufficient expertise with the chosen materials, leading to print failures and delamination issues – possible causes likely stem from user inexperience. Notably, successful test prints were completed using PETG material.