Very compact MK7 Upgrade

thingiverse

I bought a MK7ish extruder but faced issues with consistent extrusion. Inspired by the Minimalistic Mk7 replacement, I designed a compact extruder with similar concepts and a simple push button for plastic release. It has performed well so far but hasn't had much use. If you encounter any problems using it on an official MakerBot MK7/8, let me know as my extruder was purchased from another company. To create this design, you'll need four items: a 10-12mm (0.43" x 1.00" long) spring, a 5mm bolt longer than 10mm, a 5mm x 11mm bearing that is 4mm thick (available at local RC car hobby stores), and a 3mm washer. Print the following components: one body (ensure non-mirrored for your extruder), two arms (one as downloaded, one mirrored), and a button (I used red plastic). Here's how to assemble it: 1. Clean up corner holes for 3mm bolt fit. 2. Cut 5mm bolt head off, leaving 10mm shaft. 3. Thread the 5mm shaft onto one arm. 4. Place bearing on shaft. 5. Thread mirrored arm onto threaded shaft assembly. 6. Insert button into larger hole of body. 7. Place body over spring and extruder drive. 8. Secure with bolts, placing the 3mm washer between the arm and body. 9. Press the button to release filament easily.