Original Prusa i3 Mk3 Extruder Body Rework

thingiverse

Update 01-Sept-2018 - New version R3 parts added. The Prusa i3 Mk3 Extruder Body poses a significant challenge for users when they need to remove the E3D v6 hotend for maintenance or to clear a blockage. The extruder body's stepped design allows the neck of the v6 heatsink to fit snugly, but it proves extremely difficult to remove without applying considerable force. A close examination of the extruder body drawing reveals a potential redesign that enables easy removal and replacement of the hotend at any time without altering the overall shape, size, or dimensions of the extruder. By working from the Original Prusa i3 Mk3 Extruder Body drawing, I sliced the extruder body into two pieces to liberate the hotend fitting location for effortless access. No additional fixings or parts are required; simply print the two new components exactly as specified. They can be assembled using the existing three extruder motor screws to clamp the sections together and form an identical part to the original extruder body. Replace the Prusa i3 Mk3 Extruder Body with the two reworked parts. Both parts must be printed according to the parameters below to ensure accurate details are preserved. Extruder Body R2 - A is the rear section. Print this from black PETG at 0.20, 20% infill, with no raft or supports. Extruder Body R2 - B is the front upper section. (Note that this part has been flipped for printing and must be printed at 0.15 with support only on the build plate to preserve detail like the PTFE tube location.) Print this from black PETG at 0.15, 20% infill, with no raft but support yes on the build plate.