Reasons to DIY build a 3D printer

Thanks very much everyone.

So the one thing I'm noticing from the replies, is the large amount of time it takes to build one.

I wonder if the main reasons for self build are the enjoyment and learning, or just to get a much better quality printer that lasts.
And I like the idea of the Voron longevity and being able to quickly fix it
I certainly find myself drawn into the DIY build rabbit hole, but I'm trying to learn to pull on my own reigns if need be.

I haven't even tried this old Ender 3 yet and I've already ordered a new mainboard, a "self leveling" probe, and I may install Linux on a spare laptop we have, so I can run Klipper.
Next thing I'm thinking of is changing the Y "flexi-rail" system to a solid dual linear rail bed. I can't see that original bed keeping it's position when moving about with a large tall print.

Yep, just can't help myself I guess.

Just be careful the modify it to make it better rabbit hole gets to be expensive real quick.
Especially with a Voron.

Personally I would only opt for ballscews on the Z axis on a bed slinger.
But in all honesty before knocking the Ender 3 use the machine, spend some time setting it up, stiffer bed springs or as the current trend solid silicon spacers. The printer itself is only part of the equation, the secret to a good print, we're talking functional prints, is designing the CAD model with thought as to how it will be printed. Dealing with shrinkage on holes, understanding that 0.1mm accuracy is the best you can expect. What works for my Ender 3 may not work for yours for nailing hole dimensions, then throw the type of filament into the equation and things change again.
There's a reason the Ender 3 was a popular choice as an entry level printer, it Just Worked out of the box.
Teaching tech is a good channel on YouTube, Michael won't piss in your pocket and tell you the sun is shining. I've found him to be honest in his opinions and quite a knowledgeable chap,and no I'm not being biased because he's a fellow Aussie. As we say he knows his shit, plus he keeps goats.

unknown wrote:

Personally I would only opt for ballscews on the Z axis on a bed slinger.
But in all honesty before knocking the Ender 3 use the machine, spend some time setting it up, stiffer bed springs or as the current trend solid silicon spacers. The printer itself is only part of the equation, the secret to a good print, we're talking functional prints, is designing the CAD model with thought as to how it will be printed. Dealing with shrinkage on holes, understanding that 0.1mm accuracy is the best you can expect. What works for my Ender 3 may not work for yours for nailing hole dimensions, then throw the type of filament into the equation and things change again.
There's a reason the Ender 3 was a popular choice as an entry level printer, it Just Worked out of the box.
Teaching tech is a good channel on YouTube, Michael won't piss in your pocket and tell you the sun is shining. I've found him to be honest in his opinions and quite a knowledgeable chap,and no I'm not being biased because he's a fellow Aussie. As we say he knows his shit, plus he keeps goats.


 

 Thanks very much Unknown,

ha ha, yeah I am TRYING to use it. I can't even get my first layer to stick yet.
Using a glass plate, temperature up to 70, cleaned the glass with acetone, put some hair spray on it, leveled the bed with feeler gauges, and all to no avail.
I might try the standard black print sheet next.
I don't have any personal experience with the Ender but from what I've heard from the guy who gave it to me, and from various other guys on the net, I'm surprised to hear you say the Ender just works out of the box. I kind of hear that more with Bambu printers.
I found a playlist on the Ender, from the Youtube channel Teaching Tech that you recommended. I'll see if I can have some success after viewing some of his videos.

Like everything else you will only hear people bitching and moaning, the happy ones are usually pretty quiet.

The standard magnetic sheet works to begin with but over time it degrades. Creality make a textured glass sheet which works really well.