Thing O Matic Y Axis Bearing Mod

thingiverse

To enhance Y-axis stability, I drew inspiration from thingiverse.com/thing:6184. This modification uses a brass tube, similar to the original design, to extend the distance between bearings on the Y-axis. My carriage previously had slack due to a loose sleeve bearing; this fix resolved the issue. For step-by-step guidance on cutting and shaping the brass tube and enlarging carriage holes, visit www.thingiverse.com/thing:6184. I found using a handheld step drill bit effective for widening the holes. Cut a 95mm length of 21/32" brass tube, leaving 10mm on either side of the carriage. Ensure the tube's ends are flat and square. To install the modified Y-axis, first remove the Y shafts and belt. You may not need to completely detach the XY carriage; I did so to tighten the idler bearings simultaneously. Remove the bearings and enlarge their holes to fit snugly around the brass tube. Insert the bearings into the brass tube and lubricate them for smooth movement, reaching inaccessible areas with a lubricant. Reattach the shafts and belt, adjusting self-aligning bearers as needed to slide the shafts back into place.