Precision Fit Multicolor Mesh Side Boxes (for MK3/S/+, MK3.5, MK3.9 & MK4, MK4S - MMU Not Required)

24 August 24 - Working on a new version! If you're planning on printing these and this message is still here, please message me so I can make the newest model available to you. Will get them up here as quickly as I can. 

New Model Added!

1 December 2023 - Added variants of all models that do not have the mounting holes in the side for those of you that would rather not mount the boxes to your printer. 

21 November 2023 - After a request from a Printables community member, I've added a “Universal” version of the model. This will fit all MK3 variants and the MK4. 

Description

After making a few versions of side boxes for the MK3 & MK4 to use in the Original Prusa Enclosure, I decided to make an updated and longer set for those who don't have or use that enclosure. Like my other side box models, these models are designed to ensure a nice fit around the z-bottoms and snugly against the inside lip of the printer's front plate. 

These models also have holes in the side for the optional Hex Twist Lock to easily attach them to the extrusions. A version of the Hex Twist Lock file is included. Installation instructions can be found by clicking here.

Models

There are two main models of the Precision Fit Multicolor Mesh Side Boxes: The MK4 version and the Universal version. 

The MK4 version is designed to fit precisely around the z-motors on the MK4. These boxes will not fit the MK3 models. 

The Universal version is designed to accommodate the MK4 and all MK3 models. The best part of this model is that if you print them to use with your MK3, then upgrade to an MK4 down the road, you won't have to reprint the model. 

Each version has two variants: With optional Hex Twist Lock mounting holes, and without mounting holes. 

Included Files

There are a lot of files, but you'll only need one or two depending on which side boxes you want to print. The files are sorted into eight different folders based on the model (Universal vs. MK4 only) and material (PLA vs. PETG) and the variant (with mounting holes vs. without mounting holes).  In each of the folders you'll find a .gcode file for the left box, another for the right box and one for both boxes. You will also find the .gcode file for the Hex Twist lock in the root folder. 

There are also three .3mf files available. One file is for the Hex Twist Lock. The other four files are for the different side box versions. Each of the files contain both the right and left boxes. 

Printing Instructions/Recommendations

You do not need the MMU to print these boxes in multiple colors. The print will pause after the solid bottom is printed and the MK4 will direct you to switch the filament for the color change for the mesh section. After the mesh section is printed, the print will pause again and you will have the opportunity to switch the filament for the final color change. All you need to do is follow the prompts on the MK4. 

The mesh weave pattern is coded into the models using a height modifier. This allows for a solid print on the floor and top and automatically changes to the gyroid infill pattern at the same points in the print as the color changes. 

The included .gcode files contain the following settings:

• Printer: MK4 (without Input Shaper)
• Filament: 
  • Prusament PETG. I used Prusa Orange and Jet Black.
  • Generic PLA NOTE: PLA is not recommended if you intend to use these boxes inside an enclosure of any kind. 
• Print Settings: 0.30mm (draft)
• Supports: Organic supports for the circular cutouts. 
• Infill: 15%, with a gyroid fill pattern. The Height modifiers will change the infill automatically to 20%. 
• Nozzle: 0.4
• Ironing: Topmost Surface only

Print Time

Total print time will vary depending on what printer you are using, which model you print, and what settings you use. Expect about 3.5 hours per short box and about 7 hours for both long boxes. 

A note on Input Shaper (IS)

I often get asked about if the .gcode files are sliced with Input Shaper. While I have had several makers report good results when printing these models with IS, I have not updated the .gcode files yet. If you want to slice them yourself for input shaper, make sure to check the “layers” parameter on each object and change the layer height to match your print settings. So, for example, if you're using a 0.4 nozzle and are using the 0.20mm (SPEED) or (STRUCTURAL) settings, then you'll need to change the layer height to .2mm. This is important because these models were initially saved with a 0.30mm layer height which is no longer an option on the .4mm nozzle when using input shaper. If you try to use the old layer height settings, you will get an error. 

Eventually, I'll get a set of input shaper files up, but if you end up slicing it yourself for input shaper, it would be awesome if you'd leave the file in the “User Print Files” section. 

If you can't figure any of this out, and you want a .gcode with input shaper, just message me and I'll whip one up for you. 

Installation

Simply place the printed Side Box on the appropriate side of the printer. Slip the narrow end in between the z-motors and the extrusion, then push the wide end toward the extrusions to fit against the lip of the inside of the front plate of the printer. If you're using the previously mentioned optional Hex Twist Locks, you can simply insert them at this point and lock the boxes into place. 

Feedback

Thank you for taking the time to check out my model. I’ve put a lot of hours into this project to get it just right. Please consider clicking the ❤ and/or leaving me an encouraging comment if you appreciate my effort. 

If you print this model, please take a picture of your awesome new Precision Fit Multicolor Mesh Side Boxes. Then, click here to post your make and leave a review. ;)  I love seeing the cool color combinations makers come up with. 

Providing feedback helps me make better models. If for some reason you my model isn't worthy of a ★★★★★ rating, please message me with your feedback before leaving a negative rating. I'd appreciate the opportunity to address any issues. Often, problems encountered can be solved with some simple trouble shooting or a small adjustment. 

The Printables community has given me some really great ideas, so if you have suggestions on how the model could be better, I'd love to hear them. Likewise, I enjoy a challenge so if you have some unique use case and would like a new variant of a model, let's chat! I am more than happy to tweak the design to fit someone's needs if I can. 

I will continue to update the model with new variants as long and often as needed to ensure it is the best possible quality. See the Updates section below with notes on changes to the models. 

I’m always happy to share my designs with anyone who wants to use them. You’re welcome to remix this model and share this model, but if it’s something very simple, I would appreciate the opportunity to add it to my model first. Likewise, if you do share or remix it, I only ask that you give the appropriate attribution and share under the same license. 

Thank you to @JuanV for the suggestion to add the Universal model. 

And finally, although this isn't actually a remix of anyone else's model, a big thank you to @dotson90_17676 for the original mesh side box design concept.

If you really appreciate my work, you can also donate to my PayPal filament fund:

Important Notes

This model was designed in Fusion360 (2.0.16490) specifically for the Prusa MK4 and all MK3 models. It was sliced in PrusaSlicer 2.6, using a height modifier. The .gcode files use cylinder shaped modifiers to create solid areas around the side box mounting holes. On other slicer software the mounting hole may appear solid, thus it may not print correctly. 

Updates

1 December 23 - Added .gcode files that don't have the circular mounting holes for those that aren't interested in mounting the boxes to the printer. Added the new variants that don't contain mounting holes to the .3mf files. 

21 November 23 Universal Model 1.0 - Added a “Universal” version of the model, which fits all MK3 variants and the MK4. 

31 July 23 MK4 Model V1.1 - minor adjustment to the left side box for better overall symmetry.

Nov 2023 - Added new Universal Model that fits both the MK4 and MK3.

July 2023 - Added a model specifically for the MK4.