Printrbot Simple Metal Extruder Handle

thingiverse

A single print makes it incredibly easy to change filament on your Printrbot Simple Metal. This device fits over the extruder and provides extra leverage to the spring arm, making the entire process much more efficient. A secondary arm at the bottom allows for effortless pinching and helps prevent you from bending your metal printer. Another benefit of this design is that it supports the pivot screw, which often deflects slightly when pressed against the extruder arm. Instructions To get started, print this device and then heat up your hot end. Next, press the arm on your extruder with all your might and remove your filament by carefully pulling it upwards out of the extruder. Now slip this device over the front of your extruder, a simple process that requires no tools whatsoever. You may need to adjust the top arm at a slight angle to match the curvature of your extruder's arm - don't worry, it was designed with flexibility in mind! Ensure the pivot screw head securely engages with the corresponding hole in the device and press firmly until it seats properly - mine even makes a satisfying snap when done correctly. Once again heat up your hot end and pinch the cantilevered ends of the device to activate the arm motion, then feed the filament through the top hole. For those who are interested in modifying this design or dealing with fitting issues, an OpenSCAD source is provided. Please be patient if you encounter any difficulties due to its complex nature. The original intention was to have this shape match the sleek aesthetics of your Printrbot Simple Metal machine.