Clamp-on Vise - trapezoidal threads mod

Please read the description to the end to know about all options.

The original model https://www.printables.com/model/1140362 doesn't allow for remixes. I suspect that the uploader of that model is not the original creator. The original model can be found at Makerworld: https://makerworld.com/en/models/222808. So, if you want to support the original creator, you can load the vise body from there. Nonetheless, I like the design but struggled with the metric threads which are not optimal for vises.

So, for my own use, I’ve adapted the model to include trapezoidal threaded rods, and I’ve decided to share this modification here. Since I want to respect the original creator’s rights, I’m not providing a complete modification here. This means you’ll need to download both some files from the original model and my files, and make the modification yourself. Don’t worry - step-by-step instructions follow below.

Instructions

Download files

Load the following .stl files from either the original model at Makerworld or from the Printables copy:

• Frame.stl

• Vise.stl

• Mounting_Plate_TPU.stl

Furthermore, load all files of this modification model and place them in the same folder.

Do not rename the files.

Overview of the modification

We have to fill the threaded holes in three original files with solid cylinders and afterwards cut the trapezoidal threads at the same position. I have prepared OpenSCAD files which do it automatically when loaded in OpenSCAD.

If you never used OpenSCAD before: don't worry, just follow the instructions.

Step-by-step

• Load the latest OpenSCAD nightly build / development snapshot for your operating system from https://openscad.org/downloads.html#snapshots. Do not load the stable release since it it is outdated since 2021.

• On your computer go to the folder with the model files and open the file frame-mod.scad. If you haven't modified any filename, it should load the frame, apply the modifications automatically, and look like this:

  

• (1) Render the design: hit F6, or click the button with the cube-and-hourglass symbol, or in the menu click Design -> Render

• (2) Export the frame as .stl file: Click the STL button or in the menu click File -> Export -> Export as STL (binary)...

• Name the file frame-mod.stl or similar

Repeat the same steps with the files

• vise-mod.scad and

• mounting-plate-tpu-mod.scad

Now you have the modified .stl files and can print the vise as advised in the original model details.

Printing

You don't need to print the files named thread-cut...stl. They are only necessary for the OpenSCAD step to cut out the new threads.

If you print the reinforced rods make sure to have the Seam position set to Aligned (which should be the default in PrusaSlicer). You find the option in Layers and perimeters -> Advanced. This helps to cut the thin thread with the M10 steel rod.

Reinforcement option

I broke the main rod as well as the clamping bolt twice (repaired them with superglue once). The main rod broke by applying too much clamping force, the clamping bolt broke when I hit it under the table with the knee. Thus, I created a reinforced version where you can insert M10 steel rods (additional hardware) into the rods.

After printing the rods clamp the M10 steel rod into a cordless screwdriver like a drill and screw it into the hole of the rod. This will cut a slight thread into the plastic. Now screw it out again, give a good portion of superglue in the hole and screw the steel rod back in. Cut off the excess with a steel saw afterwards.

Aluminium guide rods option

Instead of printing the guide rods you can use aluminium tube with 10mm diameter and a wall thickness of 1mm. Secure the aluminium tube guide rods with two guide rod clips. In this case you need to print the retaining clip just once for the main threaded rod.

Download the remaining original files

Load the following original files too and print them as advised in the original description. They will not be modified:

• Retaining_clip

• Frame_Base_Pad_TPU

• Grip_TPU

• Guide_Rod_A - only if you don't use aluminium tube guide rods

Comments

I never published a mod like this before. It would be nice if you could share your experiences in the comments so I can improve the instructions if necessary.

If you find my designs useful, you might consider buying me a coffee. But of course, you don't have to - my designs are free and always will be.