Adjustable linear bearing for Anet A6

Adjustable linear bearing for the Anet A6 X-carriage (maybe others). Each one is using three small ball bearing and the tension between the ball bearings and rail rod is adjustable via set screws. This can remove all noticeable play between the rail rods and x-carriage and still be able to move the carriage with almost no friction. I can't really emphasize enough the stability and smooth movement improvements this makes for the carriage.

I plan to expand this technique to all the other A6/A8 linear bearing as well, so stay tuned.

Print Settings

Printer:

Anet A6

Rafts:

No

Supports:

No

Resolution:

0.2mm

Infill:

30% triangle

Notes:

Use a skirt to make sure the part stays put.

To replace the original bearing you need:

4 pcs of this printed holder

12 pcs M3x10 flat set screws (McMaster-Carr: 93245A104)

12 pcs 3x6x2.5 mm ball bearing, preferably with metal seal (MR63-ZZ).

some M3 spacers (to raise x end stop switch holder 1.5 mm)

Remove the rods and original bearing from the x-carriage. Check that the holder fits in the x-carriage hole, preferably with some friction so it stays in place. If it feels ok you can mount the ball bearings with the set screws on the printed holder. It has self threading holes. Turn the set screws to the bottom of the hole. You can feel that there is a slight increase in torque when the screw hits the bottom. Slide the rod thru the holder. It should now move with a bit of friction (if its too lose, try loosen the set screws a bit). Adjust the three set screws clockwise (as even as possible) so that the holder can fall by its own weight, but without any play. Repeat on all four holders. Add some spacers to the X end stop switch holder to raise it approx 1.5 mm. Mount the bearings in the x-carriage, insert the rods, and you are ready to go.

There is a Fusion 360 CAD-file if you need to make some dimension adjustments.