Improving Insertion of Filament into Extruder motor

[supersleeper]

Hi Folks,

Has anyone developed a part that can fit into the base of the extruder motor housing where the filament always get stuck before entering the tube? Getting the filament into the motor sprocket is no issue for me, but once it exits the motor sprocket it needs better guidance. I'm thinking a funnel that can be printed and inserted into existing base. Currently it's just flat and very challenging to insert filament with the fan in the way. I've often needed to unscrew one fan bolt and move the fan over so I can help guide the filament down into the tube.

[supersleeper]

Wanted to see if anyone has had this issue as when I insert filament I constantly have trouble getting it aligned.

[hooked]

Yep I have the same problem and it drives me nuts!

[supersleeper]

I designed and printed a funnel that fits, but still needs some tweaking before I release it. not frustration free yet, but getting there.

[hooked]

Watching with interest SuperSleeper

[lar3ry]

I had the same problem, so I designed a "funnel" to guide the filament.

I tried to upload the .scad file, but was told "The extension scad is not allowed.", which is more than a little ridiculous, since the STL file is unlikely to be usable.

Not every 3D printer is set up accurately, and the tolerances required for a part of this type are very exacting, a part printed from the STL file will, in all likelihood, not fit unless your printer happens to be set up exactly like mine. The SCAD file has named variables for all dimensions, so it is easy enough to fiddle with them to get the perfect fit.

I'll try to upload it to Thingiverse some time in the next day or so. It will be entitled something like "G2_G2S Bowden Funnel". My user name on Thingiverse is lar3ry.

PS: Hey Geeetech! What's with the restriction on SCAD files? They are text, not binary, so they can't be carriers of a virus. SCAD is freeware, so it isn't restricting use to those who can afford a commercial program. The rendering can be tested before generating the STL file, so you can tell if it's going to be what you think it's going to be. Inquiring minds wnat to know.

lar3ry

[Mark]

you can pack it into a compressed zip file so you can upload it here.

[lar3ry]

Thanks Mark!

Having trouble getting filament started through the Bowden extruder? This should help. It's a small funnel thing that helps guide the filament into the exit hole of the Bowden extruder. The dimensions are critical. Too loose, and it will flop around and possibly jam the passageway. Too tight and it will not install. Too high and it will interfere with the mechanism.

Because of this, and because not all printers are well calibrated, I have provided the SCAD file. The variables are self-explanatory, and easily changed to allow you to get the best fit after a few test prints.

To install, remove the extruder. Remove the fan. Remove the bottom filament guide. Insert the funnel with the wide end up (toward the drive mechanism). Best is a press fit, with the height just right to not quite interfere with the drive idler. Press it in far enough to allow the bottom extruder threads to bite, and tighten it. Double check the dimensions.

The attached file has both the SCAD and STL files.

[hooked]

THANKS Lar3ry