XL Nextruder 5mmODx3mmID Bowden Tube

Update 5/3/24

Added modified filament sensors with magnet modification for lighter drag on the filament.  

Uses 4mm  diameter magnets.

At elevated temperatures found inside an enclosure, the 4mm bowden tubes tend to kink or become a source of friction that causes the extruder to skip or strip the filament.  The issue is made worse if all filament sensors are mounted to one side.  And is also worst when the extruder travel is towards the rear of the build plate, which causes the tightest bend of the tubing.

  Also tried, 2mmIDx4mmOD tubing which makes the issue worse.  3mmIDx4mmOD tubing has too thin of a wall to hold the shape and only lasts for a short time before collapsing and kinking.  

25ft of 3mmID x 5mmOD tubing is required for all 5 extruders.  15ft will rework 3 extruders.

3 mm ID X 5 mm OD - F015083

M5x5mm Patikil Push Locks - 1 per

Updated 5/26/24 - The Patikil push lock hole needs to be drilled out slightly larger to accommodate filament globs from unloading.  They get stuck and need to be unscrewed from the extruder to cut the filament manually otherwise.  I have not found a cheap alternative yet.  

A square M3 nut and two M3 nyloc nuts are required per cable dock.

Qty. 2:   5mmOffset cable clips are used nearest to the dock to keep the cable from being rubbed by its neighboring extruder.

Qty. 3:   5mmCable clips 

Qty. 2:   small zip-ties

Re-work Procedure Notes:

Its easiest to remove the cable docks by first removing the rear mesh panel on the back of the printer.  Remove and disconnect the extruder, then replace the 4mm push lock with a 5mm push lock.  Remove the anti-ooze support by fully backing out the height adjustment allen screw (be sure to capture the spring).  Remove the cable dock by using a long T9 torx to unscrew the upper and lower mounting screws using the access holes from the rear of the dock.  DO NOT remove the middle allen screw that mounts the aluminum dock bracket to the frame.   The dock, cable, bowden tube, and cable support can be pulled down and out away from the XY belts.  Replace the dock, tube, and cable clips.   During re-assembly, be sure to not overtighten the zip ties and to properly adjust the anti-ooze support height.  

The 5mm PTFE tube will fit somewhat snug into the filament sensor with the push-lock ring removed as a temporary solution.