Printrbot Simple Metal Bowden Conversion

After 4 years of enjoying my Printrbot Simple Metal (with lots of upgrades), I have decided to switch out the direct drive extruder and convert to a Bowden extruder, but I still wanted to reuse as many of the original Printrbot parts as possible.

My first problem was the Hotend mount. Starting with the design work of Tech2C for a E3D Hotend, I made the modifications to fit the Ubis Hotend. Mounting holes are sized to accept M3 screws, and the Bowden hole is sized for an M6 fitting. (This mount is for the Ubis brand of hotends, available through Printrbot.)

I designed a simple platform based on the design "Printrbot Simple Spool Holder/Handle" by in-the-garage for the Bowden extruder to mount on, the platform sits on the top of the Z-Rods.

The Bowden extruder is a modified version of the "Compact Bowden Extruder" by Schlotzz. Using his SCAD file, I was able to make the changes to reflect the Hobbed Gear that came with my Printerbot Simple Metal Printer. By using this Hobbed Gear, I did not have to make any changes to the filament "Feed Rate" or the Printer Code. Also, because of my particular setup, I added a 15-degree slant to the extruder housing, so that the filament has less chance of binding as it enters the extruder.

You will need several additional parts for this conversion, including PTFE Tubing and Fittings, 608 Bearing, M3 + M5 screws & nuts..

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

Printrbot

Printer:

Printrbot Simple Metal

Rafts:

No

Supports:

No

Resolution:

.25mm

Infill:

75%

Notes:

I print all of my 3d Printer Parts with PETG for the strength and temperature benefits.rnrnYou can use PLA for these parts but I wouldn't suggest it, especially if you don't want to have to replace your parts every time the PLA gets soft due to the heat generated by the stepper motor.rnrnTech2C has a great video on YouTube for assembly of this extruder.rnrnhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLH4K1vNoXo&t=679s