I really liked what PsyKo had done to create belt tensioners here: http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... 608#p12474
The problem was that I didn't have the metal plates to create clamps or the extra length in my belts. So after giving it some thought I came up with this.
I used the existing epoxy/fiberglass belt clips that came with the kit, a nut and bolt (you could use the same nut and t-bolt meant for the clip), and a small nail or brad to anchor the belt. It might be more rigid with metal instead of the belt clip, but there is no apparent flexing the way it is.
I've been able to get my belts tighter and, with four of these, an extra 2 inches of y-travel.
Quick and easy Y-axis tensioners
Quick and easy Y-axis tensioners
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- Simple Y-axis tensioner
- y-axis-tensioner.jpg (78.54 KiB) Viewed 1599 times
ShapeOko 2 #6502 w/ NEMA 23 (140oz) motors (X and Y), Acme Screw Z-axis, Arduino/grblShield/grbl v0.9g
Spindles: Dremel 395; 400W BLDC
Spindles: Dremel 395; 400W BLDC
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Re: Quick and easy Y-axis tensioners
Very nice!
Also similar to what Little Hands did here: http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... 174#p26328
That was already on the wiki, so added your post and gave the two their own sub-head:
http://www.shapeoko.com/wiki/index.php/ ... tive_usage
Also similar to what Little Hands did here: http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... 174#p26328
That was already on the wiki, so added your post and gave the two their own sub-head:
http://www.shapeoko.com/wiki/index.php/ ... tive_usage
Shapeoko 3XL #0006 w/ Carbide Compact Router w/0.125″ and ¼″ Carbide 3D precision collets
Re: Quick and easy Y-axis tensioners
That's a wonderful reuse of existing components in a better way!
Also, PsyKo's reinterpretation of the eShapeoko clamping and tensioning mechanism is beautiful, in all that brushed aluminium.
Also, PsyKo's reinterpretation of the eShapeoko clamping and tensioning mechanism is beautiful, in all that brushed aluminium.

Proud owner of ShapeOko #709, eShapeOko #0, and of store.amberspyglass.co.uk
Re: Quick and easy Y-axis tensioners
Thanks, indeed it was taken from the eShapeoko designcvoinescu wrote:Also, PsyKo's reinterpretation of the eShapeoko clamping and tensioning mechanism is beautiful, in all that brushed aluminium.

Nice work aeleus.
Shapeoko #736
Kress 800, Z Axis upgrade, dual Y, 600mm X&Y rails, metal spacers and V Wheels, home switches, 4th axis
Goko - Free CNC Control Software - http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... 380#p44380
Kress 800, Z Axis upgrade, dual Y, 600mm X&Y rails, metal spacers and V Wheels, home switches, 4th axis
Goko - Free CNC Control Software - http://www.shapeoko.com/forum/viewtopic ... 380#p44380