1 Topic by dineshwong

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Topic: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

My replicator 2x has been dead for the quite sometime now. From what I know, the extruder head is jammed and the mightyboard has a short somewhere. So, I am planning to change both.

I was thinking of replacing the mightyboard with some other controller. I would also want to use a software that could let me modify the gcodes, like slicer or Cura maybe

I am planning to replace one of the broken extruders (dual extrusion head) with an all metal hotel end (for PC filaments)

Any suggestions on how to go about doing this

2 Reply by grob (edited by grob 2015-07-07 01:41:13)

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

I'd recommend a RUMBA board if you can get hold of one. They're quite good, and based on the arduino/RAMPS open-source design, so will run Marlin easily. Others may have alternative RAMPS-based suggestions. These tend to be the most configurable, so you can get as much as possible of your printer operating.

For host software, I'd start with Repetier-Host, and slice with either Slic3r or CuraEngine (whichever you prefer). Slic3r is a bit better understood around here, but CuraEngine should be easier in the end. In the long run, consider buying a raspberry pi, and running an octoprint server for printing and monitoring over the net! smile

Replacing the extruder is a bigger job, not overly familiar with the MB design so I'd be recommending setting up a mad dual-bowden feed with an E3D Cyclops, for example... But that might be a bit audacious for now. smile As you research, check out E3D's stuff though, their hot-ends are well regarded/understood and in my experience very reliable.

SD3. Mk2b + glass, heated enclosure, GT2 belts, direct drive y shaft, linear bearings, bowden-feed E3D v5 w/ 0.9° stepper
Smoothieboard via Octoprint on RPi

3 Reply by dineshwong (edited by dineshwong 2015-07-10 21:58:43)

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

grob wrote:

I'd recommend a RUMBA board if you can get hold of one. They're quite good, and based on the arduino/RAMPS open-source design, so will run Marlin easily. Others may have alternative RAMPS-based suggestions. These tend to be the most configurable, so you can get as much as possible of your printer operating.

I just started reading the set up for this one, and it doesnt look easy. One thing I wanted to ask was the compatibility of electronics. like getting a whole new set of power adapters and choosing bw 12v and 24V


For host software, I'd start with Repetier-Host, and slice with either Slic3r or CuraEngine (whichever you prefer). Slic3r is a bit better understood around here, but CuraEngine should be easier in the end. In the long run, consider buying a raspberry pi, and running an octoprint server for printing and monitoring over the net! smile

I am familiar with Rep Host and Slicer, So i should be okay with this part. RPi yeah, hav read about this. not used yet. Will try later.

Replacing the extruder is a bigger job, not overly familiar with the MB design so I'd be recommending setting up a mad dual-bowden feed with an E3D Cyclops, for example... But that might be a bit audacious for now. smile As you research, check out E3D's stuff though, their hot-ends are well regarded/understood and in my experience very reliable.

One of the extruders is good, though of replacing just one, but guess this will have too many design complications. Would probably start with single extrusion e3d v6 maybe


I think buying the board and configuring it for Mbot would be the first step. Thanks, If you have documented your work on this, please share.

4 Reply by wardjr

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

There is no easier board to work with than a Rumba.  It'll work with 12-36 volts so whatever Voltage your system has it'll work.
The best documentation can be found on the reprap WIKI.
If you have particular questions once you get your board, feel free to ask.

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Thanks to all for your contributions

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5 Reply by heartless

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

I can second the ease of Rumba installation. It was quite easy to do, not nearly as complicated as some of the write-ups make it sound

Everything is pretty clearly marked on the board, you just need to know what your wires are for, and put them in the appropriate places.

SD4 #1 & #2 - Lawsy carriages, E3D v6, Rumba controller board, mirror bed plate, X motor fan, upgraded PSU & Mica bed heater
SD4 #3 - in the works ~ Folgertech FT-5, rev 1
Printit Industries Beta Tester - Horizon H1

6 Reply by dubbsd

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

I have used the Azteeg x3 in the past.
http://www.panucatt.com/Azteeg_X3_repra … ax33dp.htm

Ultimaker S3.

7 Reply by grob

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

I totally understand your trepidation in changing over to a different controller board - whatever board you choose, it will take quite a bit of work to make sure you know which wires should go where, but as it happens these printers are all quite similar in that regard... With enough photos, we should be able to work out anything you get stumped with. We love a good mystery / easter egg hunt. wink

Choosing between 12V and 24V - while many good controller boards and stepper drivers are quite happy at either voltage (Rumba included), I'd recommend sticking to whatever the printer currently uses, as the heaters and fans do need to be matched. The advantages of 24V over 12V (more heater power for the same current, and a bit more stepper torque) are slim compared to the availability of stuff at 12V (e.g. fans).

SD3. Mk2b + glass, heated enclosure, GT2 belts, direct drive y shaft, linear bearings, bowden-feed E3D v5 w/ 0.9° stepper
Smoothieboard via Octoprint on RPi

8 Reply by tonnic

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

Hi - I know this is an old thread, but hoping to revive some conversation.  I recently acquired a Replicator 2X and I THINK the board is fried.  The front panel keeps beeping at me and I can connect via USB to send a print, however when I do the entire thing power cycles when I think it's going to print.

I'm fairly new to the hobby and was hoping to get the dual extruder machine up and running without a lot of money and difficulty level.  Is the RUMBA board relatively plug and play or do I need to start replacing parts to get it to work?

9 Reply by heartless

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Re: Makerbot Replicator 2x revamp

rather than resurrecting an old thread, it is actually better to start your own - easier to keep up with.

SD4 #1 & #2 - Lawsy carriages, E3D v6, Rumba controller board, mirror bed plate, X motor fan, upgraded PSU & Mica bed heater
SD4 #3 - in the works ~ Folgertech FT-5, rev 1
Printit Industries Beta Tester - Horizon H1