Tronxy X3a Top bar spool mount system

thingiverse

I recently installed the Megreth top extrusion bar end protector caps on my Tronxy frame, which led me to create a new spool support arrangement. Initially, I used cable ties to attach my standard Tronxy spool stand to the frame's top bar (see pic). However, with the end caps in place, I decided to design a better solution. The original end caps fit perfectly onto the 2020 alloy extrusions, leaving enough room for screws and T nuts. There are three main components to this new setup: 1. The Top Bar Left Side Spool Support 2. The top right corner extrusion cap and combined right spool support 3. The central (optional) filament guide arm This arm helps prevent spool over-spinning, which can cause filament to spill over the sides of the spool and result in a tangle. In fact, there are four components to this design, including my central spool hub, which is available for download on Thingiverse: https://www.thingaverse.com/thing:3263087 If you want to match the original Megreth design, you may also need to create one of their excellent corner caps for the top left extrusion bar end. The entire setup works flawlessly and keeps the spool neatly out of the way, freeing up valuable desk space. Since publishing this design, I've created additional components, including two more top bar left side supports, two more spool hubs, and filament guides. This allows me to utilize the entire length of my top bar by placing up to three spools at once (see latest pictures). This setup is particularly useful for quickly changing filament colors during a print run or when pausing a print to switch to a different color. Just a note: A maker pointed out in the comments that adding these corner caps slightly restricts Z height movement. To address this, I've adjusted my workspace's vertical maximum limit from 300mm to 285mm. While I don't think this is an issue, I wanted to mention it for completeness. If you prefer not to use the top corner pieces, you can still achieve a similar setup by omitting them and positioning the spool support assembly anywhere along the top bar. This would eliminate the slight Z gantry height restriction. However, I've chosen to keep the corner protective pieces for their aesthetic value. Enjoy!