This is a magnetically attached measuring indicator bracket used for precise bed leveling on all Solidoodle 3D Printers.

The part that holds the electronic dial indicator is separate from the bracket so that you can design your own part for holding a different dial indicator.

The magnets are very powerful 8 mm rare earth magnets available from Harbor Freight tools for $2.99 for a pack of 10 magnets.

http://www.harborfreight.com/10-piece-rare-earth-magnets-67488.html

The electronic dial indicator used for this design is a "Fowler X-Tread Tire Tread Thickness Gage" that reads either mm or inches. It is available from Global Industrial for $15.75.

http://www.globalindustrial.com/p/tools/test-measurement/gauges-dial-bore-gauge-sets/fowler-x-tread-tire-tread-thickness-gage?utm_source=google_pr&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Dimensional-Measuring-google_pr&infoParam.campaignId=T9F&gclid=CLGO7rj2jbMCFcNM4Aod5RcAkg

ASSEMBLY:
Print one each of both parts.

Carefully press the 8 mm diameter magnets all the way into the four holes on the back of the indicator bracket. The magnets will sit below the surface so the four motor extruder bolt heads are captured.

Glue the two parts together using acetone (nail polish remover) as follows:

Attach the "indicator_bkt_131217a_holder.stl" to the "indicator_bkt_131217a.stl" with the slot facing the indicator bracket.

Carefully align the bottom of both parts while gluing.

USAGE:

Lower the Z stage (away from the extruder) to provide clearance for the indicator. Center the extruder.

Install the indicator gage in the bracket.

The assembly will now magnetically snap onto the four motor bolt heads on the extruder as shown.

The assembly can slide a little on the bolt heads. I recommend pushing the assembly down gently until it contacts the sides the bolt heads.

Proceed with the bed leveling measurements.

Before moving the extruder in the X or Y direction, I recommend that the Z stage be lowered enough so that the indicator is not touching the print bed. Use a round number (10 mm) when lowering and later raising the Z stage.