Replicator 2 - 3in1 Extruder Head Upgrade - For Sale

[DHeadrick]

This complete extruder feeder upgrade is now available for pre-order.  It is manufactured from billet aluminum and PEEK engineering polymer for long life and durability under extreme temperature (PEEK performs well up to 480*F so it will continue to work if you choose to print ABS which requires higher temperature).  It has several features which correct some of the short comings of the stock Replicator 2:

1)  It employs a bearing to provide even force to the filament as it varies in thickness.  This force is easily adjustable without the need to replace parts or disassemble anything.
2)  It re-positions the stepper motor rearward so that the gripper wheel can engage the flat on the motor shaft.  No more need to file the shaft yourself possibly damaging the stepper motor with metal filings in the bearing.
3)  It allows easy access for visual inspection as well as tool access in case of a jam which might require scissors to remove the filament.
4)  It also possible to release the bearing pressure easily and quickly to allow filament changes mid-print.

You can see the development of this product in this discussion:
https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/makerbot/m2X36BIqEWE[1-25-false]

The upgrade cost $100 US + shipping (price matched to existing upgrades available) and can be ordered here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/16H2nT20j-zPLR_jo6uGLaQNPG6RWTJgjyEGToYtuIG8/viewform

I will post an instruction manual and a complete list of the parts contained in the kit shortly.

Happy printing!

[DHeadrick]

25 more pre-orders and I'll begin manufacturing which will take about 3 weeks.

[DHeadrick]

Manufacturing is beginning tomorrow (Wednesday, May 29).

I'll keep you updated.

[DHeadrick]

Manufacturing began on schedule and I have received all the hardware that goes with the kits.  Once I have the manufactured parts, I can weigh a complete kit and give estimates on shipping.

[DHeadrick]

Still on track to receive the finished components towards the end of next week.  Assembly for fit check and shipping will only take a few hours and then I will be able to email everyone the shipping estimates and take payment.

[DHeadrick]

The manufacturer had a rush job he had to complete before finishing these parts.  They are due for pickup Wednesday Jun 26.  I will be able to confirm this Tuesday and keep you informed.

[DHeadrick]

It looks like the aluminum part will be done on Friday.  The PEEK part may not be done until Tuesday because this is a long weekend.

[DHeadrick]

Finally received the parts.  I need to test assemble each kit and package them ready for shipping.

[DHeadrick]

One more teaser shot of the Aluminum & PEEK parts.  I am assembling a complete kit and will weigh it and then send out invoices including shipping.  Thanks for your patience.

[DHeadrick]

Parts are shipping today for those who have completed payment.  The installation manual can be found here (a printed version will also be in your kit).

http://3in1-extruder.davidheadrick.com/

Please feel free to provide feedback regarding the product.

[DHeadrick]

I am making a slight change to the kit which will allow it to mount to the following 3 printers:

Replicator 1
Replicator 2
Replicator 2X

I am just verifying the design for fit on these printers before offering it for order... stay tuned!

[DHeadrick]

Just in case threads disappear in the MOGG discusion, I want to capture information here as much as possible:

There will soon be a link to select the upgrade solution that best fits your needs.  You will be able to purchase a right and/or left extruder as well as hardware kits individually.  There will be printable versions so you can test them to verify that they fit your printer (in case you have made modifications from stock).  You can buy the hardware as a kit so that you can have a functional printed version to try.  Later, you may decide to upgrade your printed parts to Aluminum/PEEK versions by just buying these parts and transferring your hardware.

If you don't wish to buy anything, you can print the parts and source your own hardware... you will need the following PER extruder:

(2) M3 x 20mm SHCS
(1) 8mm OD x 4mm ID x 3mm THK bearing
(1) 5/32 DIA x 3/8" Dowel Pin
(1) 3/16 DIA x 7/16" Dowel Pin
(1) 1/4-20" x 1/8" Long Hollow Set Screw
(1) 3/16" OD x 0.023" Wire x 0.322" Solid Height Spring
(2) 6mm OD x 3mm ID x 13mm Long Spacer
(2) 8mm OD x 3mm ID x 5mm Long Spacer

You will also need the following tools:

1/4-20 Threading tap
Pocket knife
Nail setting punch
Small hammer
Patience during assembly for it to work well.

3D printed parts do not have nice smooth surfaces to slide easily against.  The printable version will work, but the more care you take during assembly to check for burrs and such, the better chance it has of working well.  If you do not wish to be bothered with this process, then maybe waiting for the Aluminum/PEEK version is a better option for you.

When this goes live,. I will create another discussion area and link to it here.

[DHeadrick]

It is about to go live for ordering... the new discussion thread can be found here:

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/makerbot/SuzXohTGeZs

[DHeadrick]

The new universal 3in1 upgrade is now live for ordering...

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!starred/makerbot/SuzXohTGeZs