¶ Introduction
Please note: All measurements provided in this guide are based on building a 300x300 V-Core 4.1.
If you are building a machine of a different size, the following adjustments can be made to the stated extrusion and linear rail lengths:
- 400x400: Add 100mm
- 500x500: Add 200mm
It is strongly recommended to assemble the frame on a known flat surface (such as a solid table, work surface or similar). Assembling the frame on a carpeted floor, tile floor or other non-flat surface can cause the finished frame to not be square. This can cause issues with print quality and performance.
¶ Step 1 - Tools for this section of the guide
- The following tools are required for this section of the guide:
- Allen key / hex wrenches in the following sizes: 4mm & 5mm
- Avoid using ball end hex wrenches on the Quick Connectors as they are more prone to damaging the heads of the Set Screws
- Spanners / wrenches in the following size: 13mm
- A pair of scissors
- The following tools are recommended for this guide:
- A tape measure
- An Engineer Square
¶ Step 2 - Tutorial: Quick Connectors - Part 1
- The following steps show how the aluminium extrusion Quick Connectors are prepared and installed. The V-Core 4.1 frame assembly begins on step 7
- The Quick Connectors are supplied in two parts:
- Quick Connector T-Nut Pin with the O-Ring pre-installed
- Quick Connector Housing with the Set Screw pre-installed
- Before trying to install a Quick Connector Housing into an extrusion, check that the Set Screw is not blocking the hole in the Quick Connector Housing
- If the Set Screw is blocking the hole in the Quick Connector Housing, slightly unscrew it to achieve the necessary clearance
¶ Step 3 - Tutorial: Quick Connectors - Part 2
- Example extrusion
- Quick Connector Housing
- Insert the Quick Connector Housing into the hole in the aluminium extrusion
- Please note: If the Quick Connector Housing is difficult to insert into the aluminium extrusion, try inserting it from the opposite side
- Make sure that the Quick Connector Housings all face the same direction
- Make sure that the hole in the Quick Connector Housing is aligned with the central hole on the aluminium extrusion as shown
- Insert the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin into the central hole on the extrusion slot
- Make sure the "notch" in the pin is facing towards the Set Screw
¶ Step 4 - Tutorial: Quick Connectors - Part 3
- Quick Connector Set Screw
- Using a 4mm hex key, tighten the Set Screw just enough to hold the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin inside the extrusion
- If correctly tightened, the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin should still move slightly backwards and forwards, but should not come loose
- Slide the second aluminium extrusion into position, aligning the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin into the slot of the second aluminium extrusion
- Be careful not to scratch the aluminium extrusions when assembling them
¶ Step 5 - Tutorial: Quick Connectors - Part 4
- Quick Connector Housing Set Screw
- Fully tighten the Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
- The Set Screw will cause the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin to pull tight against the second extrusion, securing them together
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 6 - Tutorial: How Quick Connectors work
- Set Screw
- Quick Connector Housing
- Quick Connector T-Nut Pin
- The Set Screw within the Quick Connector Housing engages with the "notch" in the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin
- As the Set Screw is fastened, the T-Nut Pin is pulled inwards, causing the extrusions to lock together
¶ Step 7 - V-Core 4.1 size variants
- As mentioned in the introduction, all extrusion measurements in this guide are based on a V-Core 4.1 in the 300 size
- If you are building a machine of a different size, the stated extrusion lengths can be adjusted as follows:
- V-Core 4.1 - 400: Add 100mm to all measurements
- V-Core 4.1 - 500: Add 200mm to all measurements
- If a measurement requires a different adjustment—or none at all—it will be noted when relevant
¶ Step 8 - Unpack the aluminium extrusions
- All of the extrusions for the V-Core 4.1 are provided packed in the same box. The SKU varies depending on the size being assembled:
- V-Core 4.1 - 300: Rat Rig V-Core 4 - CNC Milled Profile Pack v1.0 - 300 (SKU: HW3984MK)
- V-Core 4.1 - 400: Rat Rig V-Core 4 - CNC Milled Profile Pack v1.0 - 400 (SKU: HW3985MK)
- V-Core 4.1 - 500: Rat Rig V-Core 4 - CNC Milled Profile Pack v1.0 - 500 (SKU: HW3986MK)
- Be careful when opening the package. Do not use a long blade to cut the box open as you can damage the extrusions
- Unpack each layer carefully, placing the extrusions to the side for now
- There are four layers of extrusions to unpack
- The 2020 V-Slot extrusion will be used in a later guide. All others are used in the construction of the frame
¶ Step 9 - Prepare the extrusions and Quick Connectors
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- 28x Quick Connector for 30 series B-Type - 0º (SKU: HW3347GC)
- 3x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 440mm
- 4x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm
- 2x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with two M8 holes
- 5x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 540mm
¶ Step 10 - Install the Quick Connectors
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- Install Quick Connectors into both ends of the following extrusions:
- 3x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 440mm
- 4x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm
- 2x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with two M8 holes
- Make sure the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing the same side as the counterbores for the M8 screw holes
- 5x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 540mm
¶ Step 11 - Prepare the remaining extrusions and frame jig
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- In addition to the extrusions prepared in the previous step, the following extrusions are needed to assemble the frame:
- 2x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 750mm
- 2x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 750mm with three M4 holes
- 1x T-Slot 3060 Milled Extrusion - 540mm
- 4x M8x40 Cap Head Screw (SKU: HW1871SC)
- 1x vc4_frame_jig Printed Part (SKU: PP000279)
- Please note: The Frame Jig may have been printed in green or black. The design is the same regardless of colour
¶ Step 12 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 1
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with Quick Connectors and two M8 holes from step 10
- Make sure that the counterbores for the M8 Cap Head Screws are facing you, as shown
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 750mm
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 750mm with three M4 holes
- Make sure this extrusion is installed as shown. It should be at the front, with the three M4 holes at the top and facing you
- Assemble the extrusions as shown but do not fasten them together yet
¶ Step 13 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 2
- Lay the assembly on a flat surface, this is crucial to ensure a square frame
- Good surfaces: Poured self-levelled concrete, glass, or a stone countertop
- Bad surfaces: Carpeted floor, a tile floor, or rough concrete
- Align the extrusions as shown - making sure the ends are flush
- Assembly Tip: You can use a spare 3030 extrusion or an Engineer Square to help align the assembly
- Fasten the Set Screws in both of the Quick Connectors to secure the extrusions together
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 14 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 3
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 440mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Align the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin with the bottom extrusion slot and insert it
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Make sure that the extrusion is oriented correctly. The Quick Connector Set Screws should be facing you as shown
- Insert the extrusion into the side assembly, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots as shown
- Slide the extrusion downwards, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin on the 440mm extrusion fits inside the extrusion slot
¶ Step 15 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 4
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- Carefully rotate the marked extrusion 90 degrees so that the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing you as shown
- Look into the extrusion slots of the upper and lower extrusions to make sure that both Quick Connector T-Nut Pins have rotated correctly
¶ Step 16 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 5
- Install the Frame Jig onto the frame assembly in the marked position
- Make sure the Frame Jig is installed completely flush with the extrusion and that the bottom "tabs" are within the extrusion slot
- Push the Frame Jig to the right to eliminate any space between the Frame Jig and the front extrusion
- The marked gap should measure 20mm. This measurement is the same for all V-Core 4.1 sizes
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
¶ Step 17 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 6
- Install the Frame Jig onto the frame assembly in the marked position
- Make sure the Frame Jig is installed completely flush with the extrusion and that the bottom "tabs" are within the extrusion slot
- Push the Frame Jig to the right to eliminate any space between the Frame Jig and the front extrusion
- The marked gap should measure 20mm. This measurement is the same for all V-Core 4.1 sizes
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
- Fully tighten both of the marked Set Screws to secure the extrusions together
- Double check that the marked distances are 250mm. These measurements are the same for all V-Core 4.1 sizes
- If any of the extrusion connections are loose after fully tightening the Set Screws, loosen the Set Screw on the loose joint and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 18 - Assemble the left-hand side of the frame - Part 7
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Insert the extrusion into the side assemblies, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots
- Align the extrusions as shown - making sure the ends are flush
- Refer to step 13 for instructions on how to correctly align the extrusions
- Fully tighten both of the marked Set Screws to secure the extrusions together
- If any of the extrusion connections are loose after fully tightening the Set Screws, loosen the Set Screw on the loose joint and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
- Set this assembly aside until step 27
¶ Step 19 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 1
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with Quick Connectors and two M8 holes from step 10
- Make sure that the counterbores for the M8 Cap Head Screws are facing you, as shown
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 750mm with three M4 holes
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 750mm
- Make sure this extrusion is installed as shown. It should be at the rear, with the three M4 holes at the top and facing you
- Assemble the extrusions as shown but do not fasten them together yet
¶ Step 20 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 2
- Lay the assembly on a flat surface, this is crucial to ensure a square frame
- Good surfaces: Poured self-levelled concrete, glass, or a stone countertop
- Bad surfaces: Carpeted floor, a tile floor, or rough concrete
- Align the extrusions as shown - making sure the ends are flush
- Assembly Tip: You can use a spare 3030 extrusion or an Engineer Square to help align the assembly
- Fasten the Set Screws in both of the Quick Connectors to secure the extrusions together
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 21 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 3
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 440mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Align the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin with the bottom extrusion slot and insert it
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Make sure that the extrusion is oriented correctly. The Quick Connector Set Screws should be facing you as shown
- Insert the extrusion into the side assembly, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots as shown
- Slide the extrusion downwards, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin on the 440mm extrusion fits inside the extrusion slot
¶ Step 22 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 4
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- Carefully rotate the marked extrusion 90 degrees so that the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing you as shown
- Look into the extrusion slots of the upper and lower extrusions to make sure that both Quick Connector T-Nut Pins have rotated correctly
¶ Step 23 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 5
- Install the Frame Jig onto the frame assembly in the marked position
- Make sure the Frame Jig is installed completely flush with the extrusion and that the bottom "tabs" are within the extrusion slot
- Push the Frame Jig to the left to eliminate any space between the Frame Jig and the rear extrusion
- The marked gap should measure 20mm. This measurement is the same for all V-Core 4.1 sizes
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
¶ Step 24 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 6
- Install the Frame Jig onto the frame assembly in the marked position
- Make sure the Frame Jig is installed completely flush with the extrusion and that the bottom "tabs" are within the extrusion slot
- Push the Frame Jig to the left to eliminate any space between the Frame Jig and the rear extrusion
- The marked gap should measure 20mm. This measurement is the same for all V-Core 4.1 sizes
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
- Fully tighten both of the marked Set Screws to secure the extrusions together
- Double check that the marked distances are 250mm. These measurements are the same for all V-Core 4.1 sizes
- If any of the extrusion connections are loose after fully tightening the Set Screws, loosen the Set Screw on the loose joint and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 25 - Assemble the right-hand side of the frame - Part 7
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 475mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Insert the extrusion into the side assemblies, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots
- Align the extrusions as shown - making sure the ends are flush
- Refer to step 13 for instructions on how to correctly align the extrusions
- Fully tighten both of the marked Set Screws to secure the extrusions together
- If any of the extrusion connections are loose after fully tightening the Set Screws, loosen the Set Screw on the loose joint and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 26 - Verify the frame sub-assemblies
- Make sure that the two frame side sub-assemblies match the provided image:
- Left-hand side sub-assembly assembled in step 12 through to step 18
- Right-hand side sub-assembly assembled in step 19 through step 25
- The two sub-assemblies should be a mirror of each other
- It is important to verify that the assemblies are correctly mirrored. Incorrect assembly will lead to significant issues during later steps
- Make sure that all Quick Connector Set Screws are fully tightened before continuing
¶ Step 27 - Assemble the bottom of the frame - Part 1
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- Left-hand side sub-assembly from step 18
- T-Slot 3060 Milled Extrusion - 540mm from step 11
- Align the holes in the 3060 extrusion with the M8 holes in the bottom extrusion of the left-hand side sub-assembly
- 2x M8x40 Cap Head Screw from step 11
- Insert each M8x40 Cap Head Screw through the M8 holes in the bottom extrusion of the sub-assembly. Carefully begin to thread them into the end of the T-Slot 3060 extrusion before fully tightening them to secure the extrusions together
¶ Step 28 - Assemble the bottom of the frame - Part 2
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- V-Core 4.1 Frame - Left-Hand Side Assembly from the previous step
- 2x T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 540mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Insert each extrusion into the side assembly as shown
- Make sure the Quick Connector T-Nut pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots and the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing outwards
- Do not fasten the Quick Connector Set Screws yet
¶ Step 29 - Assemble the bottom of the frame - Part 3
- Place the assembly on a flat surface, this is crucial to ensure the extrusions are aligned and the frame is square
- Make sure that the front extrusion is flush with the side assembly
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw on the front to secure the extrusion to the sub-assembly
- Move to the rear of the frame assembly
- Make sure that the rear extrusion is flush with the side assembly
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw on the rear to secure the extrusion to the sub-assembly
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
- Make sure to support the frame assembly to ensure that it does not fall over
¶ Step 30 - Assemble the bottom of the frame - Part 4
- Right-hand side sub-assembly from step 25
- Slide the right-hand side sub-assembly down onto the frame assembly as shown
- Make sure the Quick Connector T-Nut pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots
- Do not fasten the Quick Connector Set Screws yet
- 2x M8x40 Cap Head Screw from step 11
- Insert each M8x40 Cap Head Screw through the M8 holes in the bottom extrusion of the sub-assembly. Carefully begin to thread them into the end of the T-Slot 3060 extrusion before fully tightening them to secure the extrusions together
¶ Step 31 - Assemble the bottom of the frame - Part 5
- Place the assembly on a flat surface, this is crucial to ensure the extrusions are aligned and the frame is square
- Make sure that the front extrusion is flush with the side assembly
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw on the front to secure the extrusion to the sub-assembly
- Move to the rear of the frame assembly
- Make sure that the rear extrusion is flush with the side assembly
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw on the rear to secure the extrusion to the sub-assembly
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 32 - Assemble the rear of the frame - Part 1
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- V-Core 4.1 Frame Assembly - Rear Side - Bottom Extrusion
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 440mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Install the extrusion roughly in the middle of the frame assembly as shown
- Make sure the Quick Connector T-Nut pin is aligned with the bottom extrusion slot
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 540mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Insert the extrusion into the side assemblies, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots and the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing outwards
- Slide the extrusion downwards, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin on the 440mm extrusion fits inside the extrusion slot
¶ Step 33 - Assemble the rear of the frame - Part 2
- Carefully rotate the marked extrusion 90 degrees so that the Quick Connector Set Screws face towards the rear as shown
- Look into the extrusion slots and make sure that both the upper and lower Quick Connector T-Nut Pins have rotated correctly
- Install the Frame Jig onto the assembly as shown
- Measure the marked gap on both sides, they should be equal and measure 255mm
- V-Core 4.1 - 400: The gaps should measure 305mm
- V-Core 4.1 - 500: The gaps should measure 355mm
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 34 - Assemble the rear of the frame - Part 3
- Move the Frame Jig to the marked position
- Measure the marked gap on both sides, they should be equal and measure 255mm
- V-Core 4.1 - 400: The gaps should measure 305mm
- V-Core 4.1 - 500: The gaps should measure 355mm
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screw to secure the extrusions together
- Do not tighten either of the marked Set Screws at this point, they will be secured in a following step
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 35 - Prepare the lower stepper motor plate parts
- 1x Rat Rig V-Core 4.0 - Motor Plate - Lower Left v1.0 (SKU: HW3606PC)
- 1x Rat Rig V-Core 4.0 - Motor Plate - Lower Right v1.0 (SKU: HW3607PC)
- 8x M6x12 Cap Head Screw (SKU: HW1836SC)
- 8x T-Nut Drop-in for 30 series - M6 (SKU: HW1361NC)
¶ Step 36 - Assemble the lower stepper motor plates
- Rat Rig V-Core 4.0 - Motor Plate - Lower Left v1.0
- 4x M6x12 Cap Head Screw
- Insert the M6x12 Cap Head Screws into the plate from the side without the countersunk holes
- 4x T-Nut Drop-in for 30 series - M6
- Loosely thread a T-Nut onto each of the M6x12 Cap Head Screws. Do not tighten them at this point
- Repeat these instructions to assemble the lower right stepper motor plate
- Completed lower left stepper motor plate
- Completed lower right stepper motor plate
¶ Step 37 - Assemble the rear of the frame - Part 4
- Align the lower left stepper motor plate assembly with the back left extrusion as shown
- Make sure the plate is fully seated against the 3030 extrusion
- Raise the plate upwards until it touches the extrusions above
- Tighten the four M6x12 Cap Head Screws to secure the stepper motor plate to both extrusions. This will ensure the side and back extrusions are correctly aligned
¶ Step 38 - Assemble the rear of the frame - Part 5
- Align the lower right stepper motor plate assembly with the back right extrusion as shown
- Make sure the plate is fully seated against the 3030 extrusion
- Raise the plate upwards until it touches the extrusions above
- Tighten the four M6x12 Cap Head Screws to secure the stepper motor plate to both extrusions. This will ensure the side and back extrusions are correctly aligned
¶ Step 39 - Assemble the rear of the frame - Part 6
- Fully tighten the marked Set Screws to secure the rear extrusion to the frame
- If the extrusion connection is loose after fully tightening the Set Screw, loosen the Set Screw and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
- Loosen all four M6x12 Cap Head Screws on the lower left stepper motor plate, and remove it from the frame
- Loosen all four M6x12 Cap Head Screws on the lower right stepper motor plate, and remove it from the frame
- Set both stepper motor plates aside, they will be used later in the guide
¶ Step 40 - Check the frame assembly
- It is important to verify the frame assembly is correct at this point. Check the following:
- The front extrusions are installed correctly with the three M3 holes at the top and facing towards the sides
- The two M8x40 Cap Head Screws per side are fully tightened
- All of the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing outwards and are fully tightened
¶ Step 41 - Assemble the top of the frame - Part 1
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- Move to the rear of the frame assembly
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 540mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Insert the extrusion into the side assemblies, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots and the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing towards the rear
- Align the extrusions as shown - making sure the ends are flush
- Refer to step 13 for instructions on how to correctly align the extrusions
- Fully tighten both of the marked Quick Connector Set Screws to secure the extrusions together
- If any of the extrusion connections are loose after fully tightening the Set Screws, loosen the Set Screw on the loose joint and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 42 - Assemble the top of the frame - Part 2
- If you are building a machine of a different size, add 100mm to all listed extrusion lengths for the V-Core 4.1 400 or 200mm for the V-Core 4.1 500
- T-Slot 3030 Milled Extrusion - 540mm with Quick Connectors from step 10
- Insert the extrusion into the side assemblies, making sure the Quick Connector T-Nut Pins are aligned with the side extrusion slots and the Quick Connector Set Screws are facing towards the front
- Align the extrusions as shown - making sure the ends are flush
- Refer to step 13 for instructions on how to correctly align the extrusions
- Fully tighten both of the marked Quick Connector Set Screws to secure the extrusions together
- If any of the extrusion connections are loose after fully tightening the Set Screws, loosen the Set Screw on the loose joint and check that the Quick Connector T-Nut Pin was properly positioned. The connection will not tighten if the "notch" on the pin is not aligned with the Set Screw
¶ Step 43 - Prepare the frame feet
- 4x Leveling Feet for 3030 - M8x30mm (SKU: HW3727GC)
¶ Step 44 - Install the frame feet
- It is recommended to lay the frame assembly on its back with the bottom overhanging the edge of a surface to make installation of the feet easier
- Please note: The V-Core 4.1 frame is large and heavy. If allowed to fall, it can cause damage or injury. It is highly recommended to have a second person help when moving the frame
- 4x Leveling Feet for 3030 - M8x30mm
- Carefully thread one foot into each of the four frame corner extrusions as shown
- Set the frame on the newly-installed feet
- Adjust each foot, by rotating them to adjust the height, so that the frame sits level and does not wobble
¶ Step 45 - Prepare the base plate
- The SKUs for the V-Core 4.1 base plates vary depending on the size:
- V-Core 4.1 - 300: Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - 300 Rear v1.2 (SKU: HW3919PC)
- V-Core 4.1 - 300: Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - 300 Front v1.2 (SKU: HW3918PC)
- V-Core 4.1 - 400: Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - 400 Rear v1.2 (SKU: HW3921PC)
- V-Core 4.1 - 400: Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - 400 Front v1.2 (SKU: HW3920PC)
- V-Core 4.1 - 500: Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - 500 Rear v1.2 (SKU: HW3921PC)
- V-Core 4.1 - 500: Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - 500 Front v1.2 (SKU: HW3922PC)
¶ Step 46 - Prepare the base plate parts
- 16x Washer Simple M6 - Black 12.9 Steel (SKU: HW2746NC)
- 4x M6x16 Cap Head Screw (SKU: HW2827SC)
- 1x Rubber Grommet - 18x14x3 (SKU: HW3783GC)
- 16x M6x12 Cap Head Screw (SKU: HW1836SC)
- 20x T-Nut - Drop In Type for 30 Series - M6 (SKU: HW1361NC)
- 22 Metres of Foam Strip - 1mm x 8mm - Adhesive 3M - EVA material (SKU: HW2943GC)
¶ Step 47 - Cut the foam lengths
- Using scissors, cut lengths of the foam strip based upon the size of the V-Core 4.1 being assembled:
- 3x 544mm (300) / 644mm (400) / 744mm (500)
- 1x 538mm (300) / 638mm (400) / 738mm (500)
- 2x 423mm (300) / 523mm (400) / 623mm (500)
- 2x 253mm (300) / 303mm (400) / 353mm (500)
- 2x 18mm (All sizes)
¶ Step 48 - Install the foam strips
- For each length of foam strip, carefully remove the backing paper which protects the adhesive and then apply it to the frame in the positions shown:
- 544mm (300) / 644mm (400) / 744mm (500)
- 538mm (300) / 638mm (400) / 738mm (500)
- 423mm (300) / 523mm (400) / 623mm (500)
- 253mm (300) / 303mm (400) / 353mm (500)
- 18mm (All sizes)
¶ Step 49 - Assemble the base plates - Part 1
- Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - Rear
- Locate the marked hole on the base plate
- Rubber Grommet - 18x14x3
- Install the Rubber Grommet into the marked hole. The grommet is flexible so it can be deformed to install it
¶ Step 50 - Assemble the base plates - Part 2
- Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - Rear
- Make sure the rear base plate is oriented with the grommet offset to the left
- Rat Rig V-Core 4.1 - Base Plate - Front
- 16x M6x12 Cap Head Screw
- 16x Washer Simple M6 - Black 12.9 Steel
- Install an M6 washer onto each of the M6x12 Cap Head Screws and then insert the screw into each of the holes shown
- 4x M6x16 Cap Head Screw
- Insert an M6x16 Cap Head Screw into each of the four holes along the front edge of the front base plate
¶ Step 51 - Assemble the base plates - Part 3
- 20x T-Nut Drop-in for 30 series - M6
- Loosely thread a 3030 T-nut onto each of the sixteen M6x12 Cap Head Screws and onto each of the four M6x16 Cap Head Screws. Do not tighten any of them at this point
- Please note: The base plates for both the V-Core 4.1 400 and V-Core 4.1 500 have six additional mounting holes which are not used in the default kit
- These additional holes are provided to allow the optional installation of extra brackets for increased frame stiffness
¶ Step 52 - Install the rear base plate
- Rear Base Plate assembly from the previous step
- Insert the Rear Base Plate into the side of the frame assembly, sliding it to the back, and then downwards to rest on the base of the frame assembly
- Be careful not to scratch the aluminium extrusions when installing the Rear Base Plate
- Make sure all of the T-Nuts are slotted into the extrusions
- Secure the Rear Base Plate to the frame assembly by tightening all nine M6x12 screws
- The ninth screw is obscured in the image
¶ Step 53 - Install the front base plate - Part 1
- Front Base Plate assembly from step 51
- Insert the Front Base Plate into the front of the frame assembly, at a 45-degree angle
- Move the left-hand side of the Front Base Plate into position above the bottom left-hand side extrusions
- Rotate the right-hand side of the Front Base Plate downwards until it sits flat within the frame assembly
- Be careful not to scratch the aluminium extrusions when installing the Front Base Plate
- Make sure all of the T-Nuts are slotted into the extrusions
¶ Step 54 - Install the front base plate - Part 2
- Make sure that the Front Base Plate is fully seated in the base of the frame assembly
- Secure the Front Base Plate to the frame assembly by tightening all seven M6x12 screws
- Do not tighten the four M6x16 Cap Head Screws along the front edge at this point
¶ Step 55 - Prepare the frame bracket parts
- 4x Bracket - Extruded 90º Corner for 30 series - 6030 Tall - Black (SKU: HW3162BC)
- 12x T-Nut - Drop In Type for 30 Series - M6 (SKU: HW1361NC)
- 12x M6x12 Cap Head Screw (SKU: HW1836SC)
¶ Step 56 - Assemble the lower frame brackets
- Bracket - Extruded 90º Corner for 30 series - 6030 Tall - Black
- 2x M6x12 Cap Head Screw
- Insert an M6x12 Cap Head Screw into each of the two holes on one side of the bracket as shown
- 2x T-Nut - Drop In Type for 30 Series - M6
- Loosely thread a 3030 T-nut onto each of the two M6x12 Cap Head Screws. Do not tighten any of them at this point
- Prepare four of these assemblies
- Set two aside until step 58 and step 60
- The remaining two are used in the next step
¶ Step 57 - Assemble the upper frame brackets
- Lower frame bracket assemble from the previous step
- 2x M6x12 Cap Head Screw
- Insert an M6x12 Cap Head Screw into each of the two holes on the remaining side of the bracket as shown
- 2x T-Nut - Drop In Type for 30 Series - M6
- Loosely thread a 3030 T-nut onto each of the two M6x12 Cap Head Screws. Do not tighten any of them at this point
- Prepare two of these assemblies
- Set one aside until step 62
- Set the other aside until step 63
¶ Step 58 - Install the lower left frame bracket - Part 1
- 2x M6x16 Cap Head Screw
- Carefully unscrew and remove both M6x16 Cap Head Screws, set them aside for a moment
- It is important not to move the T-Nuts hidden under the Base Plate
- Lower frame bracket assembly from step 56
- Position the lower frame bracket as shown. The bottom holes in the bracket should align with the holes in the Base Plate
- Make sure both of the T-Nuts are slotted into the extrusion
- Insert the two M6x16 Cap Head Screws into the lower frame bracket and loosely thread them back into the T-Nuts under the Base Plate
- Do not tighten any of the M6x12 or M6x16 Cap Head Screws at this point
¶ Step 59 - Install the lower left frame bracket - Part 2
- Press the lower frame bracket against the side 3030 extrusion
- Fully tighten both of the M6x16 Cap Head Screws to secure the lower frame bracket to the Base Plate
- Fully tighten both of the M6x12 Cap Head Screws to secure the lower frame bracket to the 3030 extrusion
¶ Step 60 - Install the lower right frame bracket - Part 1
- 2x M6x16 Cap Head Screw
- Carefully unscrew and remove both M6x16 Cap Head Screws, set them aside for a moment
- It is important not to move the T-Nuts hidden under the Base Plate
- Lower frame bracket assembly from step 56
- Position the lower frame bracket as shown. The bottom holes in the bracket should align with the holes in the Base Plate
- Make sure both of the T-Nuts are slotted into the extrusion
- Insert the two M6x16 Cap Head Screws into the lower frame bracket and loosely thread them back into the T-Nuts under the Base Plate
- Do not tighten any of the M6x12 or M6x16 Cap Head Screws at this point
¶ Step 61 - Install the lower right frame bracket - Part 2
- Press the lower frame bracket against the side 3030 extrusion
- Fully tighten both of the M6x16 Cap Head Screws to secure the lower frame bracket to the Base Plate
- Fully tighten both of the M6x12 Cap Head Screws to secure the lower frame bracket to the 3030 extrusion
¶ Step 62 - Install the upper left frame bracket
- Upper frame bracket assembly from step 57
- Position the upper frame bracket into the corner of the extrusions as shown
- Make sure all of the T-Nuts are slotted into the extrusions
- Press the upper frame bracket into the corner of the 3030 extrusions
- Fully tighten all four of the M6x12 Cap Head Screws to secure the upper frame bracket to the frame
¶ Step 63 - Install the upper right frame bracket
- Upper frame bracket assembly from step 57
- Position the upper frame bracket into the corner of the extrusions as shown
- Make sure all of the T-Nuts are slotted into the extrusions
- Press the upper frame bracket into the corner of the 3030 extrusions
- Fully tighten all four of the M6x12 Cap Head Screws to secure the upper frame bracket to the frame
¶ Step 64 - Verify the frame brackets
- Verify that all four frame brackets are correctly installed and that sixteen Cap Head Screws are fully tightened
¶ Step 65 - Next guide
- Continue with the next guide: Z-Axis Assembly