Anti backlash nut adapter for the Ender 3

This is an anti-backlash nut adapter for the Ender 3. This part adapts the mounting holes on the Ender 3 to a cheap two piece brass anti-backlash nut with a round flange with holes for mounting. The anti-backlash nuts can be found on Ebay by searching for "T8 8mm Anti-backlash Spring Loaded Nut Screw" or you can get them on Amazon as well. They should cost between $2-7. Since I originally posted this, I upgraded the brass anti-backlash nut to a POM version, which I would recommend if you you can get them since they do not require as much lubrication and generally seem better than brass (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07XYQ4KJ9).

This design will interfere with the stock extruder, only use it if you have relocated the extruder. There is not enough room for the adapter with the anti-backlash nut if the stepper is mounted next to it. There are parts on Thingiverse to move the stepper however - like this (i have not used this extender but if used without the fan holder it should work):
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3027783

This part uses four to six M3 locknuts (depending on how many holes you want to use), and you will need to determine the screw sizes needed. I used a couple of m3x16mm (anti-backlash nut side) and m3x12mm (printer side) screws since that's what I had. The total height of the adapter is 11.1mm so please factor that as well. Some washers may be needed if the screws are too long since this design requires the screws to be fully enclosed.

It has been pointed out (thanks Pastera), that I mounted this upside down (LOL). At least for the most optimal function of the anti-backlash nut. With it facing up, the top follower is able to press against the bottom of the screw threads, while the bottom follower/mount is pressing on the top of the screw threads (due to gravity).

Why did I mount it upside down? I thought that if I mounted it the other way (facing up) it would have required losing about 10-13mm of the z-height, so It was mounted facing down. Swapping it did however fix the issues I was having with the adjustment of the stock brass z-nut. It may be better to drill some holes and mount the nut directly to the carriage without this adapter, if you want to mount an anti-backlash nut for optimal function.

Per the model, the hole spacing (center to center) for the anti-backlash nuts is 16mm (diagonal) or about 11.3mm between holes, if hopping from hole to hole. The mounting holes spacing (for the Ender3 side) is 18mm (thanks tonwright91 and Loosiu for pointing that out). The old v5 model had the Ender3 side holes at 17.74mm, but the new v6 design is updated with holes spaced at 18mm to match the dimensions of the Ender3 better. The STEP file is also now included.

Category: 3D Printer Parts