Prusa I3 Mk3 eXtruder Umbilical Bundle Support Bracket

thingiverse

I've been frustrated with the way the extruder umbilical bundle mounts to the Einsy case since day one, particularly with the 3mm Filament segment. It always seemed like it was loose or not allowing the bundle to move properly. Recently, after seven months of printing on my Mk3, I noticed that the Hotend power cable had rubbed off part of its insulation where it enters the case. I decided to tackle this issue head-on and create a custom bracket. This bracket redistributes the load from the rotating and flexing cable away from the entrance of the case, where there's no protection, and onto the flexible wrap, allowing for even distribution. Since installing this design, I've printed an entire spool of plastic without any issues, and I'm thrilled with the results. The extruder umbilical bundle still moves freely, albeit with a bit more restriction than before. The bracket attaches to the Einsy side of the frame using pre-drilled and tapped holes from the factory. I used two M3x12 socket head cap screws that match the printer's design, securing them in place without needing nuts on the back side. This setup ensures no interference with the axis once the bracket is bolted up. To complete the installation, take a spare cable tie supplied with the printer and loop it through the holes and across the front. If you don't have any ties, use ones less than 3mm wide and at least 75mm long; trim the excess if desired. Note that Phillips head screws in the picture will work temporarily, but I opted for stainless steel M3x12 socket head cap screws from a hardware store to match the printer's design.