Prusa Ball Bearing Filament Guide

thingiverse

I designed a filament guide that keeps my spools secure behind the printer, using smaller bearings to reduce drag and wear on the system. I selected these bearings: https://www.ebay.com/itm/10x-MR105-2RS-Rubber-Sealed-Ball-Bearing-Miniature-Bearing-5-x-10-x-4mm-Blue-SM/302808483966?hash=item4680cac87e:g:bekAAOSwDrNZPjxz:rk:1:pf:1&frcectupt=true. I print with 0.20mm or higher layers, and enable supports to ensure stability. Testing with PETG and PLA has shown that it holds up well under use. However, the pin for the swivel cap is somewhat fragile, but should stay in place once inserted. To avoid any issues, you can try printing with PETG or warming it up slightly before inserting the pin into the swivel cap at the top. I made some updates to improve this design: On 20190303, I created V2 files that provide better clearance for the extruder housing at maximum Z and reshaped the bearing axle for easier insertion. Then, on 20190304, I added a new frame clip with improved clearance at maximum Z, which secures well while providing better clearance than the Prusa filament spool holder.