3D Printer Blog

Don Pablo · **Reply #210 on:** July 02, 2020, 01:18:05 PM

I don't have an Ender 3, but that was a great read.

Chako · **Reply #211 on:** July 02, 2020, 08:27:10 PM

I did not even think to look for anything for a V-Star 1100 Classic.

Not really sure what I could print that I might need. I understand that PLA is UV sensitive to begin with. Not sure if that would be the best way to go.

Nothing like re-reading your post and finding typos but you cannot fix them anymore lol.

Don Pablo, I posted that just to illustrate how you could buy a very cheap printer, and upgrade it slowly when you can bit by bit to have something much better down the road. I find it interesting that Creality is coming out with a V2 that basically saw what their user base was doing with their printers. Some of what they did is an improvement and some of what they did wasn't. For example, BigTreeTech board and screen are improvements even to what you get with the V2, but they cost extra. You get touch screen as well as classic mode, you get access to both SD cards and USB drives along with the micro SD card reader built into the motherboard. Both are now featuring 32 bit which is a big upgrade compared to 8 bit. The SKR Mini E3 board I installed quieted the printer so much that it is almost silent. I only hear the quiet whoosh of the fans, meaning I can sleep in the same room now. The V2 should also quiet the printer down a lot as it features a silent board with better stepper motor dampeners. The SKR Mini E3 still edges out the new Creality board with more connectivity...but if I had the V2 board, I might have been happy with it. I do know that the 32 bit boards also improve curves/radius movements during printing. I find it interesting that Creality is also giving you front storage solutions with their newer models, as the community have many different drawers you could print for the older printers. The inclusion of X and Y axis tighteners is a good idea on the V2...but the ones you can buy are all metal..but they cost around 20 bucks each. I found that buying that Z axis bracket does help your print as any wobble here will result in a surface pattern called salmon skin. So also being aesthetic, it also helps the print as well.

Yeah, the Ender 3 is a fantastic 3D printer with a lot of room to grow. You can get the base Ender 3 and slowly build up the printer as you can afford it. A glass plate is 20 something Canadian. The SKR Mini E3 is less than 50 dollars, The screen the same. Little add ons are usually around the 20 dollar mark each. Buy and upgrade as you need or can afford, and at the end, you have a plucky little 3D printer that gives you good results. Mind you, you get good results without any of these upgrades.

I am thinking of possibly getting a Creality CR-6 down the road. They aren't out on Amazon as of yet...but I am thinking of getting one if they aren't too expensive. Only time will tell.

Dutch_Tooler · **Reply #212 on:** July 02, 2020, 09:33:48 PM

Quote from: Chako on July 02, 2020, 08:27:10 PM

I did not even think to look for anything for a V-Star 1100 Classic.

Not really sure what I could print that I might need. I understand that PLA is UV sensitive to begin with. Not sure if that would be the best way to go.
(...)

OK, PLA isn't the best option, but I'd like to offer the challenge of printing more durable stuff in ABS. I've done a few smaller things like a custom switch holder for the hazard lights upgrade on my Guzzi on my printer, and a prototype for the fog light switch holder which I ended up ordering with Shapeways in the end. Just a thought.

Chako · **Reply #213 on:** July 02, 2020, 09:49:03 PM

Not really set up for ABS...I print in my living room and don't want to handle the toxicity of the fumes from ABS. I do have PETG which I haven't experimented with yet.

Dutch_Tooler · **Reply #214 on:** July 03, 2020, 02:30:35 PM

Ah, OK, fair enough. I have a cellar with closing door and opening window, which helps.

Chako · **Reply #215 on:** July 03, 2020, 04:25:54 PM

Looks like the only thing I could find was a GoPro mount that fits on the front bumper of the motorbike. I already have a chrome guard there. Thanks for the idea. That hadn't crossed my mind.

Dutch_Tooler · **Reply #216 on:** July 03, 2020, 06:24:37 PM

But the nice thing about 3D printing is that one can design one's own objects. I did, for the things I listed above. I forgot one thing in that list: a holder for a nicer rear reflector and extra light which I printed and which turned out nice enough to use

Chako · **Reply #217 on:** July 04, 2020, 02:54:38 AM

That is very true.

MadPlumbarian · **Reply #218 on:** July 04, 2020, 03:48:49 AM

Do you need a computer to hook up to these things or can you run it from an iPad?
JR

Chako · **Reply #219 on:** July 04, 2020, 11:43:49 AM

Most come with a USB cord that would allow you to hook it up to a computer. I have never used that because the best place for me to put the printer is nowhere near a computer. Most people will use a CAD program and a slicer program such as CURA on the computer, load the end product onto a micro SD card. Place said card into the printer, and print the file from the printer.

The iPad would need some form of a card reader and similar compatable software. I do have an iPad but never looked into it.

Some 3D printers have built in WiFi. With my upgraded motherboard, I can buy an inexpensive WiFi module for it, but I personally do not see a need as I would still have to turn on the printer in person.

Chako · **Reply #220 on:** July 05, 2020, 12:34:01 AM

My little armor collection keeps growing.

IMG_8645A by Chako, on Flickr

Dutch_Tooler · **Reply #221 on:** July 05, 2020, 10:10:15 AM

I can see a nice WWII diorama in your future

Whoey · **Reply #222 on:** July 05, 2020, 11:39:49 AM

time for some painting, then your train diorama can take on a WW2 vibe

All things considered, the Snapmaker 2.0 is kinda more what I had in mind vs a 3D printer, something that does laser cut, CNC and 3D printing...

Granted it will never be as good as individually task dedicated machines, should cover my needs mostly

Chako · **Reply #223 on:** July 11, 2020, 11:28:29 AM

The Snapmaker 2.0 looks like a great machine Whoey. Let me know how it works for you if and when you get it.

I just pulled the trigger on another Creality Ender 3 off of Amazon. This time it is the Pro version as opposed to the 3X. With a going rebate, it came out to the same price as the 3X, which is 336 Canadian. I figured having a second similar printer will come in very useful. The Pro comes with a wider Y-axis rail, an upgrade Meanwell power supply, a flipped over motherboard compartment, and a magnetic base. I already have a few upgrades I can apply to this second one such as that Z-axis top bracket, upgraded springs, and that extra glass bed that I bought as a spare. I will be getting another SKR Mini E3 mainboard down the road as that made the biggest difference. Not sure I will be adding the upgraded LCD panel to the upgrade list though. I find I spend more time in the serial interface as opposed to the touch screen section, and I rarely use the SD card or USB card slot. Also not sure if I will add a BLTouch to the system. I still haven't exactly figured out how to set that up properly, and find manually leveling the bed not that much of a hassle. No telling what delays I will encounter with them right now.

I know mid July, the Ender 3 V2 will be coming out. However, that price will be more expensive than the Pro version, and I will be getting the Pro for the same price as the Ender 3X...so I can spend the extra savings on an upgraded BigTreeTech SKR Mini E3 mainboard and still be ahead of the game. I think I got a nice savings because of the V2 coming out soon, as I would think the sellers would want to move stock to make room for the latest. From what I see, it might be some time for the Ender 3 V2 to come out as pre-orders are full at the moment.

I took a long hard look at the Ender 3 V2, and didn't exactly like some of the upgrades I saw. I still think some of the 3rd party upgrade parts are superior to what Creality added to the printer. For example, the BigTreeTech SKR Mini E3 mainboard is still better than the 32 bit one Creality has included in the V2. The belt tighteners on the V2 are made of plastic. I much prefer the all metal parts, even though they are roughly 20 Canadian each to add to the printer. I didn't exactly like the new V2 LCD screen interface which isn't even a touch screen. I can play with a touch screen interface on my currently upgraded printer, but find myself preferring the simplicity of the "classic" screen. I associate the updated interface screen on the V2 much like the touch screen section minus the touch screen...if that makes sense. Not to mention who knows when you can actually buy a V2 if so inclined.

So now I will be able to compare an Ender 3X to an Ender 3 Pro. The nice thing, I love the Ender 3. It really is a fantastic 3D printer. I already know the ins and outs of the design, and the Pro should be easy for me to configure to my liking. The Pro should arrive sometime around July 17. Only time will tell if I will get it that fast...Canada Post is currently being class action sued for failed date delivery by folks who paid extra to get things expedited.

Chako · **Reply #224 on:** July 13, 2020, 06:47:46 PM

Tried printing something last night and nothing came out of the nozzle. I of course figured maybe the bed needed re-leveling...which it didn't. I then thought maybe the nozzle was plugged. I tried to shove one of those cleaning needles that are more or less an acupuncture needle. From what I could tell...a clog was not the main issue. It got late, so I put everything aside for the following day.

This morning, I removed the black PLA filament and did the needle thing. I inserted the red PLA and tried to print something but to no avail. I looked at printed Yoda and he was doing his little round and round dance. I pre heated the nozzle and removed the red PLA and looked at the tip. It was all black and somewhat cooked...or at least that is what it looked like to me. It didn't look like it was being fed to the nozzle, but remained in the heating chamber. Time to take Yoda off the extruder. I re-inserted the filament into the extruder and noticed something. The gear teeth has somehow fallen down on the motor shaft and was no longer feeding filament to the nozzle.

I took a pair of pliers and gently removed the gear while pressing open the extruder lever. The gear is held on by 2 little set screws that had come loose allowing the gear to fall down, no-longer making contact with the filament. That explained why I was no longer laying down a bead of molten plastic. I flipped the gear over so that I could easily access the two set screws. Tightened both using my smallest hex key and I am back in business. I have noted that one side of the motor shaft is flat...and I didn't set one of the two set screws on that flat side. I think later, I will make that adjustment.

I think I will print a better extruder knob that will allow me to see the extruder gear under it. Yoda was cool, but I had to remove him to trouble shoot this latest hiccup. I am thinking something smaller, lighter, and less solid might be a better solution.

On another front, I am told the Ender 3 Pro should be arriving this Friday. I have already ordered the motherboard upgrade for it.

Don Pablo · **Reply #225 on:** July 13, 2020, 07:29:25 PM

Quote from: Chako on July 11, 2020, 11:28:29 AM

I just pulled the trigger on another Creality Ender 3 off of Amazon.

OH COME ON!

Why do you get all the cool stuff?

Chako · **Reply #226 on:** July 13, 2020, 08:48:19 PM

I was seriously looking at this printer...

https://www.amazon.ca/ADIMLab-Assembled-310X310X410-DirectDrive-Available/dp/B07CPQQ57D/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?dchild=1&keywords=gantry+pro&qid=1594665711&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFOOEM3N0JKUUUwV1AmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAyODQxMjUxTFozTkdURzA0TUFMJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA2MjkzMzIzM1dKQzBIMERBU0lRJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

It is the cheapest printer to get to a build area of 310x310x410cm that I could find off of Amazon.ca. Not sure if I would ever need to print something bigger than the 220x220x250cm build volume of the Ender 3, but it does seem to be a very nice bigger printer. Ultimately did not have the room for something so big. Nah, a second Ender 3 would be advantageous.

Don Pablo...I am going to do something very Canadian and apologize for getting all the cool stuff...sorry.

Chako · **Reply #227 on:** July 13, 2020, 11:44:25 PM

Almost done with the nozzle storage tray.

IMG_8675A by Chako, on Flickr

Chako · **Reply #228 on:** July 14, 2020, 01:55:50 AM

Storage tray is now completed. There was a printed top that went with this, but I decided not to bother, thinking a zip lock bag would provide better dust control. I could not see the numbers very well. I had thought the numbers would be raised, but that wasn't the case. A black marker flush with the surface provided much needed number contrast. Now I have room for all of my tips...including the 3 darker tool steel tips in 0.4 size that I bought for wood and other harder filaments that tend to wear the brass ones down quickly.

IMG_8681A by Chako, on Flickr

Tips come in the following sizes:

0.2
0.3
0.4 (most used size)
0.5
0.6
0.8
1.0

Each one screws into its individual hole. Note to self, the nozzle wrench provided with the printer sucks. I saw a much better ratchet style online...might be best to get one of those down the road.

So what size should be used and for what?

https://rigid.ink/blogs/news/what-3d-printer-nozzle-size-should-i-use-the-pros-and-cons#:~:text=The%20most%20common%20standard%20nozzle,it%20won't%20take%20forever.

Chako · **Reply #229 on:** July 14, 2020, 05:44:29 AM

I went online to look at nozzle wrenches. I came to my senses after looking at a few, and got one of my many ratchet sets. Yes, 6cm socket fits perfectly. Just saved 20+ dollars.

Chako · **Reply #230 on:** July 14, 2020, 12:32:43 PM

Started to print upgrade parts for the second printer before it gets here. Note that the bed is not exactly leveled as the right side is a touch too close to the nozzle as evidenced by the skirt. My next print will need a bed re-leveling adjustment on that right side.

IMG_8682A by Chako, on Flickr

Chako · **Reply #231 on:** July 14, 2020, 05:10:47 PM

Got another upgrade package in the mail yesterday, and I just finished installing it. I think this is a much better solution to the Y-axis tightener. The original piece requires 4 screws to be loosened and then the whole unit to be pulled to catch up any slack in the Y-axis belt. The new piece is much easier to tighten via a knob.

The old...

IMG_8683A by Chako, on Flickr

The new...

IMG_8684A by Chako, on Flickr

Oddly enough, there was no instructions that came with the upgrade. I had to work from a photo online. A simple set of instructions would have gone a long way, especially in my figuring out how the pulley system was put together. I managed...but it took an extra 15 or so minutes for something simple.

One thing to be mindful, this will not fit on an Ender 3 Pro with its dual width beam on the Y-axis. They make a wider version for the Pro.

Chako · **Reply #232 on:** July 15, 2020, 10:31:07 AM

Canada Post up to its usual again. The new printer and motherboard where slated to arrive this Friday. Checked this morning, and the motherboard is delayed once again in Sudbury. Same message with the printer, stating that it might arrive Friday, but don't count on it. Sigh.

Chako · **Reply #233 on:** July 15, 2020, 11:44:40 AM

I decided to print a storage drawer for the new printer. Because the Pro has a 2040 Y-axis aluminium extrusion compared to the Ender 3X's 2020 Y-axis, I had to make sure I am printing a drawer designed to fit the pro.

Because I liked the one I printed for the Ender 3X, the Pro version should fit the bill. I like how it slides in and out, and that cutout in front gives a lot of access to the bed leveling knob on the front right corner.

https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2957317

Starting 7 hour print.

Chako · **Reply #234 on:** July 15, 2020, 11:51:06 AM

Call me swift. I was thinking about future projects when I decided to type in "Swiss Army Knife" in the search query on Thingiverse. Looks like I may have to play with some of this in the future.

https://www.thingiverse.com/search?q=Swiss+army+knife&type=things&sort=relevant

Chako · **Reply #235 on:** July 15, 2020, 05:25:59 PM

Got home to a power outage. I sat in the dark looking at my dead printer for 27 minutes pondering if the printers resume feature will work, or will I have to trash my drawer. Power came on, and the printer asked me to resume. When I pressed yes, the printer auto homed the nozzle. Problem..the printer did not raise the nozzle...and when the power shut off there was a bit of pooled plastic. After a bit of resistance and noise, the nozzle went to home. The printer then heated the bed and the nozzle, and continued once again with the project. While the printer heated things up, l cut the pooled plastic with a pair of side cutters. Only time will tell if the results are good. I thought I would never have to test this printer feature. It works, but there is a chance when the nozzle auto home's to knock the piece off the plate due to the plastic that pools onto the project.

It does work though.

Chako · **Reply #236 on:** July 16, 2020, 03:10:31 AM

Here are some photos of the drawer that suffered the power outage.

Resume print does work...albeit, it did leave some artifacts.

IMG_8685A by Chako, on Flickr

Here is the finished product. At least I didn't lose 3 hours of printing, but you can tell the layer that resumed.

IMG_8686A by Chako, on Flickr

IMG_8687A by Chako, on Flickr

Happy to say, this is a utilitarian drawer and the line doesn't bother me in the least. Just happy that I didn't wast any filament. So yes, the resume print feature does work...just do not expect to get a perfect piece in return. If this was a decorative object, I would not be very pleased.

Speaking of not being very pleased, Canada Post is up to their usual once again. I have 5 Amazon.ca shipments tied up in Sudbury. Sudbury is a 3.5 hour drive from where I currently am. All my shipments were slated for July 17 or 20th arrival. Just checked and am told that they might still arrive on time, but there was an external delay. From past experiences, I am thinking the delay may be sometime late next week if I am lucky. Time will tell. Just wondering why Sudbury seems to be a sticking point for local deliveries.

In case you might be wondering, I have the following doing the Sudbury crawl...

1. Creality Ender 3 Pro.
2. BigTreeTech SKR Mini E3 motherboard.
3. 10 608ZZ ball bearings used for upgraded spool holder which I haven't printed yet.
4. BigTreeTech TFT35 E3 V3.0 LCD screen. I know I wasn't originally going to get one for this printer, but thought I should try to keep both printers consistent for ease of use.
5. X-axis belt tightener.

Vidar · **Reply #237 on:** July 16, 2020, 10:34:48 AM

That is a neat feature.

Not sure what mine would do in such a case - hopefully something similar, but I also hope to never find out.

Chako · **Reply #238 on:** July 16, 2020, 11:05:47 AM

It is something I never wanted to try out. At least I now know what to expect.

I found out I can print SAK toothpicks. I will have to try that out now.

Chako · **Reply #239 on:** July 16, 2020, 01:29:52 PM

Success...and 3 of them only took 3 minutes to print.

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