Ball Bearing Spool Holder for Makerbot Method + Method X

This project was made to address issues with the original spindles for the Makerbot Spool Mount. We had problems with cardboard spools not spinning freely and slipping down the angled parts which causes them to bind. I took a lot of inspiration for this design from Fidorek89's ball bearing spool holder for the SP5 which you can find here: https://cults3d.com/:996521 I used the inner spool from his design and modeled this one around it, so thank you to Fidorek89 for allowing me to post it here.

You'll need 2 608ZZ ball bearings to assemble the spindle. Depending on your print settings, you may find that the bearings fit a bit loosely. We've had versions that hold the bearings tightly and some that are more loose, and both work just fine. The weight of the spools hold everything together nicely.

This spindle is designed to print vertically without any supports. The inner spool should also be printed vertically, but it will need supports. I'd suggest a brim if you have bed adhesion issues. I've printed these in ABS and PLA without any issues.

There is very little play in the twist to lock joint. It takes some firm pressure to snap it in.

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

MakerBot

Printer:

**Rafts:**

No

Supports:

**Resolution:**

0.2

Infill:

**Filament:** Overture PLA Pro Space Gray

Notes:

How I Designed This ===================

Taking inspiration from Fidorek89's design and Makerbot's original spool mount system, I modeled this spindle in Fusion 360.

Category: 3D Printer Accessories