Z stepper alignment indicator

Problem:

On Anet A8 the left and right z steppers get misaligned (skip a step). This can happen because the screws aren't running smoothly or if the printer isn't assembled/aligned perfectly. I've had problems on almost every print with this when I first got this printer. Now that I got things running smoothly this only happens sometimes, usually on long prints, when moving the printer changing the filament etc.

What the thing does:

The indicator shows if the left and right steppers are aligned with each other or not. If they are not you can easily realign them.

If your printer is tuned correctly you almost never need to realign the steppers, if it does you should fix the problem by cleaning, lubricating, aligning z lead screws and rods.

How to use the thing with your Anet A8:

Print 2 rings and 2 bases.

On both z axes, put the ring part on the lead screw and attach the base part with one screw on the printer (as seen on photo). The ring should be tight but still able to turn on the lead screw.

Align left and right carriages with calipers or a ruler and level your bed (as you usually do). When everything is perfectly level, home the z axis, and adjust the dials on both axis so that they are pointing at each other. When turning the ring part on the lead screw, make sure that the steppers are locked.

Now the dials show you the perfect position of your z axes. From now on when one of the steppers misses a step you will see it right away.

To realign:

• Home the z axis
• Turn one axis while holding another with your other hand and adjust so that both dials are aligned
• Home the z axis again

Fits perfectly on my Anet A8 purchased February 2017.

Enjoy!

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

Anet

Printer:

A8

Resolution:

0.1 - 0.3mm

Infill:

Low or none.

Notes:

Printed with PLA (0.5mm nozzle).