Maker Select V2 / Wanhao Duplicator I3: Minimal X-belt Tensioner

X Axis Belt Tensioner for Monoprice Maker Select V2 (Wanhao Duplicator I3 rebrand)

Wasn't happy with any of the many existing X tensioners for this printer

either having clearance issues with my other mods, or having a bolt that's far off center from the tension line, etc

ended up designing my own.

very small, minimal range ~approx 4mm of length adjustment

-primary belt length should be determined by the Fixed Side loop, with the Tensioner only taking up final slack.

Hardware:

3mm x 20mm bolt with a head no larger than 5.5mm

3mm nut with 5.5mm hex flats

prints in orientations provided with no supports.

note the outer housing has a thin ‘bridging membrane’ across the bolt hole to increase print quality, should be drilled out postprocess

loop and clip parts are used on Fixed Side of belt (opposite tensioner) as a convenient alternative to zip-ties.

Install Tip:

disconnect Both Ends of belt from anchor bolts on carriage.

run belt through Tensioner and get tension bolt just barely threaded with the smallest loop possible

hook over carriage anchor

pull slack out of belt and ziptie/clip the Fixed end of belt to carriage as tightly as possible

finally tension belt by adjusting Tensioner

Tensioning is slightly unintuitive, Note the photos closely for orientation.

Tightening the bolt actually pulls the body of the tensioner Away from the carriage anchor, Enlarging the loop end. However this action increases tension, as the ‘tail’ end of the belt is being pulled away from the carriage as the loop enlongates. -non-intuitive, but works

Category: 3D Printer Parts