Thing-O-Matic X-Y Motor Tensioner

thingiverse

I revamped the design in Solidworks, refining edge fillets and enhancing tolerances. As I used standard M3 bolts from my ToM, I countersunk the conical screw hole for a better fit. The 'tensioning tower' part received extra reinforcement. Although drilling out the main 4 screw holes slightly was necessary, the M3 screw hole for the tensioner fitted perfectly. To replace the cork spacer, I added a small plate, allowing the motor to slide when tightening the tension bolt. However, overall dimensions may need adjustments as some sides required filing down for a flawless fit. Scaling accuracy could be an issue; please confirm. Post-installation, print quality significantly improved, with circles appearing as actual circles rather than polygons. Removing the motor is essential for replacement. Installation order includes Tensioner Part 1, Wood Y-carriage, Tensioner Part 2 (a slider spacer), Nema 17 motor, followed by M3 bolt assembly tightening. A bit of blue locktite was applied to hold the motor securely while maintaining slideability through tensioning screw adjustment.