When the Modix Big-Meter V3 was first introduced, it brought significant improvements over its predecessor, the V2, making it a very competitive machine for its time. However, as with any technology, advancements continue to be made, and the release of the V4 marked a significant leap in stability and reliability.

For those looking to enhance their V3 machines, the official upgrade path towards a V4 includes new electronics, motors, rails, and a toolhead. This undoubtedly results in a sound and reliable machine, and I am more than happy to provide quotes for an upgrade kit for those interested. However, I decided to take a different route with my own Modix Big-Meter V3, focusing on a more cost-effective yet highly effective upgrade path.

Why Upgrade?

The V3, while a solid performer, has some areas that could benefit from improvement. The Z-axis in the V3 is somewhat underpowered, and the older NEMA 17 motors tend to suffer from resonances. Additionally, the Aero toolhead, although good at the time, does not match the capabilities of newer options like the LGX extruder, especially when dealing with larger spools over 2kg.

My Upgrade Path

Electronics Upgrade: I opted to replace the electronics with a BTT MantaM8P board featuring TMC2226 drivers. This choice was made because the BTT board combines everything needed for the Raspberry Pi and MCU in a neat package that fits perfectly in the existing electronics box with an adapter. For those interested in the adapter, you can find it here. This setup not only streamlined the upgrade process but also made future maintenance easier.

Firmware Enhancement: Installing Klipper firmware was a significant upgrade over the original RepRap firmware. Klipper offers a multitude of advanced features and performance improvements, such as input shaping to reduce resonance, advanced acceleration control, quad gantry leveling which levels the bed to the gantry, and probing only the used part of the bed. These features collectively contribute to smoother prints, reduced artifacts, and better overall reliability.

Motor Upgrade: I chose to replace the old motors with LDO NEMA 17 stepper motors. These are currently the best NEMA 17 motors available and offered a noticeable improvement in performance. I avoided switching to the V4’s NEMA 23 motors to keep the upgrade more straightforward and avoid the need to change motor mounts and belt paths.

Custom Toolhead: One of the key upgrades was designing and installing my own toolhead, featuring an LGX pro extruder and a Volcomosq heatblock. This custom toolhead allows the use of the original heater and thermistor if desired. Additionally, it includes a second part cooling fan, which is a much-needed enhancement for the Modix printer. You can explore the 3D montage of the upgrade here and print the upgrade parts here. If you prefer a ready-made solution, you can purchase the complete upgraded toolhead from my online store. The LGX extruder, in particular, stands out for its reliability and strength, especially when handling larger spools.

The Results

The upgrades have transformed my Modix Big-Meter V3 into a more robust, reliable, and capable machine. The combination of improved electronics, advanced firmware, and superior motors has resulted in smoother operation, reduced resonance issues, and better overall performance.

Additional Resources

For those interested in further exploring or replicating these upgrades, here are some useful resources:

• You can download the print profile for a standard unmodded V4 here.

• Watch the instructional video on how to use this profile on YouTube.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Modix Big-Meter V3 doesn’t have to mean following the official upgrade path. By carefully selecting components that offer the most significant improvements for the cost, you can achieve outstanding results. If you’re interested in the official V4 upgrade or have questions about my custom upgrades, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you get the most out of your 3D printing experience.