(This is part of a multi-part post detailing my efforts to build a RepRap Mendel, an open source 3D printer. For the first post in the series, see here. For the second part, in which I construct the X-axis blocks, see here).

Last time, I constructed the blocks for the X stage or the RepRap Mendel, only to run out of the M4 nuts I needed to finish building the kit. A trip to the hardware store later, and I was back in business. It turns out that the Mendel kit provided by Mendel-Parts falls short on a number of bolt lengths as well, as dictated by the standard Mendel construction instructions available at the mechanical construction wiki page. However, Mendel-Parts ships a number of alternative bolt lengths not used in the classic Mendel build, so in most cases I’ve been able to substitute M4-40mm bolts for M4-35mm bolts and save the 40mm bolts for only the places in which they are really needed. As such, I haven’t had to make any runs for a particular length bolt so far, and am crossing my fingers that I can get through the build without having to (we’ll see).

With the M4 nuts in hand, I set about building up the blocks for the Y and Z stages of the Mendel. Shots of the blocks constructed can be found below:

Z Leadscrew Base (without Optoswitch):

Z Leadscrew Base (with Optoswitch):

Z Stage Motor Bracket:

Z Stage Tensioner Bracket:

Y Stage Motor Bracket:

Y Bearing 360 Left:

Y Bearing 360 Right:

All together now:

You can see more pictures of the RepRap Mendel build in our Flickr set. Stay tuned for the next exciting installment of the RepRap build!