Process of upgrading to dual extruder and getting a better hotend

[Mikhail]

Recently I have been trying out more complicated prints that require support material, high detail, and/or high amounts of precision and I would like a second extruder for support material and for quicker infill on precise prints that don't require complex supports. I currently have a prusa I3 pro B with a single extruder and I don't completely understand the process of upgrading and would like some help with the steps on how to do so. Thanks.

I'm also curious about trying out a more precise hot end with a .2 mm diameter, but I don't where I would buy something like that.

[William]

Hi，
You can update the latest firmware to achieve more functionality，and here is the download link：
http://www.geeetech.com/forum/viewtopic ... 20&t=17046
AS for the hot end with a 0.2 mm diameter,you can consult our seller.

[Mikhail]

thanks for the reply, but I was wondering about what parts I would need to upgrade.

[Newopint95]

You don't have to upgrade any parts on the Pro B. You will need another hot end and extruder, the plate that came with my Pro B is the same as the Pro C.
You should be able to just add the new parts and flash the firmware and be on your way.

[William]

Sorry, I misunderstood your meaning yesterday, As Newopint95 says, you need to add new parts and flash the firmware, and here are some items can help you :
1. A 20A power supply:
http://www.geeetech.com/s25012-12v-20a- ... p-966.html
2. A MK8 dual extruder:
http://www.geeetech.com/mk8-dual-extruder-p-921.html
3.One more A4988 Stepper motor driver:
http://www.geeetech.com/stepper-driver- ... -1007.html
4. A dual extruder holder:
http://www.geeetech.com/mk8-dual-extrud ... p-950.html
If you need them, please contact our sales(sales@geeetech.com).
As to the firmware, please refer to that of pro C model:
http://www.geeetech.com/forum/download/file.php?id=1555

[Mikhail]

Thanks for the help. I ended up getting side-tracked over the summer so I haven't gotten around to doing this until now.

Looking at both parts lists, the major expenses will be in both the control board (GT2560+5 A4988) and the dual extruder (MK8 dual extruder). What I currently have in place of those parts are an GT2560+4 A4988 board and a single MK8 extruder. So i'm wondering if its possible to:
1.Buy an additional MK8 extruder and fabricate a housing for both my old one and the new one giving me the same thing as the dual extruder
2.add an additional port to the control board.

[William]

1. You can do it by yourself.
2. The board has two extruder port. Just use it.