Modular 2" Shop Vac Switcher / Slider

ABOUT:

This is a 3d printable version petesquared23's plywood shop-vac switcher. I think Pete's design is a great alternative to blast gates, manifolds and variety of typical plumbing options that are less than ideal in a dust collection rig. By switching the hose to the right tool there is little opportunity for clogs or loss of suction.  My only issue with his design was that it was done with a CNC router and I don't have one of those! 

With permission I have recreated the idea in 3d printable form. I am have been using it on my setup for the past year now and I am thrilled to say it still works great, so now it's here for all to enjoy.

Check out Pete's really cool plywood version: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CelquD6JYjw/ Be sure to check out his other videos too, he's a brilliant maker and if you're into wood working  you'll find lot's of clever ideas!

Special thanks to Pete, of course, and also to Andy Linde, with Humboldt Maker's, for the idea to make the hose connector a locking tab!

FEATURES:

• Modular, can make your slider feature as many 2" dust collection ports as you have tools in your shop.
• The slider has a lever with a bump-out that functions similar to a detent allowing it to self-register over the hole perfectly. No fussing around with the position. 
• Slot in slider lever allows for a rubber band to be secured around it the lever for when printing in PLA. The rubber band is optional but will ensure the lever always pushes down into the detent holes and registers correctly.
• Can be mounted vertically or horizontally.
• 100% printable with exception of the mounting screws and optional rubber band. 
• Locking tab hose connections only require a ¼ turn to lock in place. This allows you inspect the hose and switcher for obstructions without having to remove the hose clamps. 
• Hose tabs are threaded and with some 2" Flexi-hoses they do not even need hose clamps! I found some hoses are wider than other though so I use clamps on one brand and none on another. 

PRINTING SUGGESTIONS:

• The slider and main body need support (sorry). It should be printed with the lever on the bed. 
• The hose adapter does not need support, it should be printed with the tabs on the bed facing up. 
• You need to print the main body for as many tools as you want to mechanism to be able to support. Each body piece has locking diamonds to snap them together (YMMV depending on the filaments chosen). Once they are tabbed together they should be screwed into the wall or workbench with the screw tabs with slots. 
• You need a hose adapter for the slider, and each main body piece you print. The slider and main mount use the same tabbed hose adapter so you can just multiple those out on the print bed if you like. 
• Print with at least 3 perimeters for nice strong part.

WARNINGS:

• If you don't use a rubber band on the lever it will last longer if you use a someone softer plastic like PETG, or a firm TPU. PLA is acceptable but it's not as good at springing back when deflected and the rubber band becomes more necessary than with other plastics. 
• This is a chunky big strong part designed to survive in the most active area of my work shop. It's going to take a significant amount of plastic to print depending on how many tools you have and your print settings. 

Print for personal use and remixing only, this may not be sold commercially on Etsy, eBay, etc. If you use it for a remix you must share the remix under the same license.