Wanhao i3 M8 Spool Holder Upgrade Kit

thingiverse

Introduction: Before you print this spool holder upgrade kit, take a moment to print out Azza's Z braces (http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:921948) to support the added weight of multiple spools and reduce secondary motion on the i3's frame while printing. These braces will also improve your prints significantly. What is it: This is an ongoing project for a M8 spool holder upgrade kit designed specifically for the stock spool holder on the Wanhao i3 v1 and v2. It's not a groundbreaking design, but rather an attempt to strengthen the original spoolholder and enable the use of favorite M8 spool adaptors with the Duplicator i3. What it does: This upgrade kit strengthens the original spoolholder and allows for the use of favorite M8 spool adaptors on the Duplicator i3, while also providing additional space for an extra spool. Furthermore, it adds a third storage compartment for a spare spool on the old spoolholder, along with storage for hex wrenches and a clog tool. Important: When printing this kit, do not split up the models contained in the i3_M8_Upgrade_Braces.stl into multiple pieces (in Cura or other slicer), as these braces contain an inner structure that will be compromised if separated. Without these inner structures, the braces will be significantly weaker. Notes: I've aimed to make this print as simple and efficient as possible by minimizing filament usage. Instead of designing a new holder or reinforcement that covers the entire stock spool holder, I've opted for a straightforward upgrade that addresses specific weaknesses in the original design. You will need: 2 x screws longer than those currently holding the top gantry on the i3 1 x M8 threaded rod 2 x M8 lock nuts 2 x medium-sized cable ties 2 x 3D printed M8 Spool Adaptors of your choice (I personally use Robotnik's original spool adaptor or my own remix) If you choose to use Robotnik's spool adaptor, you will need at least: 2 x 608ZZ bearings (4 x for the remix) You may also want to use a normal M8 nut or an M8 stop/clamp to secure any spool adaptors in place. When my filament guide is ready, you'll likely need: 1 x 0.5m PTFE tubing (the same type used with bowden) Other reflections: The i3's top metal sheet gantry is quite flexible and flimsy, which may cause issues with the spool holder. I haven't addressed this problem yet, but someone else might have a better solution. In my opinion, Wanhao should have strengthened some of the sheet metal parts on the Duplicator i3 to make it more stable. Last reminder: Be gentle with the spool holder and avoid using it as a handle for lifting or moving the printer. This may cause damage to the spool holder and potentially distort the sheet metal pieces of the printer itself. Print Settings Printer: Duplicator i3 Ultra Rafts: No Supports: Yes Resolution: 0.2mm max Infill: 30-50% Notes: Use a shell thickness of at least 1.2mm and supports are only necessary for the brace with storage boxes and the large plug with M8 nut housing. PS: It can be challenging to remove supports inside the boxes, but sticking a small flat screwdriver into the supports and breaking them off makes it easy to pull out with pliers afterwards. How I Designed This I spent some time on the far side of the moon, kicked up some dust, and suddenly had a colorful vision of a grand spool holder for the i3.