SoliForum - 3D Printing Community — Going to purchase a Solidoodle 2 Pro-What do I need to know?

Re: Going to purchase a Solidoodle 2 Pro-What do I need to know?

null@example.com (aaronstalling) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 01:00:54 +0000

Thanks again Azerate,
I think that the support on this forum has really sold the Solidoodle.

Re: Going to purchase a Solidoodle 2 Pro-What do I need to know?

null@example.com (AZERATE) — Fri, 11 Apr 2014 00:33:24 +0000

The case is just the measurements you make, then ask your local hardware store to cut the acrylic. Once that is done, you line up holes and use M3 bolts to screw into existing SD2/3/4 holes. On that note, stock up on different lengths of M3 bolts, washers, and nuts. M4 nuts will also come in handy!
There is a thread on Soliforum entitled "Show off your cases" (if memory serves me right) where you can easily tell there is not "true way" to encase your printer. If it works, it works.

However, I do use printed parts to construct my case(s), and you can easily search Thingiverse for corner brackets and angled brackets.
I also highly recommend getting used to software like Sketchup, Bendler, and MakeHuman. All are free, although Blender is more of a labyrinth and takes much time to get used to. However, there are many youtube tutorials on how to design on it.

Check your message box...I will send you a PM

Re: Going to purchase a Solidoodle 2 Pro-What do I need to know?

null@example.com (aaronstalling) — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 23:27:39 +0000

Thanks, Azerate.
I think I will stay with the 2 Pro, I can't see myself printing anything above 6 inches.
Do you have a link for the case you bought? I figure I can design and print some panels that connect together using a tongue and groove joint; also add some nice hinged access panels to make adjustments.

Re: Going to purchase a Solidoodle 2 Pro-What do I need to know?

null@example.com (AZERATE) — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 22:03:39 +0000

Bed Leveling tutorial: http://vimeo.com/55450537
Z Tab Adjustment tutorial: http://vimeo.com/55610035

You will need a digital caliper to properly calibrate the extruder. A video tutorial can be found here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JZGdMc2ebPo
A caliper will also be your best friend for making fitting parts and gauging the accuracy of your printer.

I wish I spent the extra 100 for a 3, but I am getting along just fine with my SD2.
*SOME* Solidoodles can print out of box. Mine, including countless others, could not do this...possibly due to UPS and their less than loving shipping techniques.

I personally recommend, once the printer has been properly calibrated, print yourself an mk5 extruder. If you ever have to clear a clog, you will want to chuck SDs acryllic extruder out the window...they are pretty much only useful in a beaver dam.

For maintenance, it is super minimalistic. Once every few months I dab some white lithium grease on the rods. But this is only because I run my printer nearly every waking minute I am home. Also, build yourself a case of some type to not only keep the heat in, but also to keep dust, hair, fur, etc. from getting all up in your kool-aid. My SD2 case only cost $20 in acryllic at Ace Hardware.

Going to purchase a Solidoodle 2 Pro-What do I need to know?

null@example.com (aaronstalling) — Thu, 10 Apr 2014 21:17:06 +0000

After much comparison to other 3D printers I have decided to (soon) purchase a 2 Pro.
Could someone please answer some questions?
●On arrival what do I have to do prior to printing my first job?
●What routine maintenance can I expect to do on a weekly/every use basis?
●Before I order the 2 Pro, is there any sales/coupons coming up that will discount a 3 to around the 2 price?
●How hard is it to get the printing bed level?
●What is the most amazing thing to print first (I'm in love with Thingiverse)

Many Thanks,