Without instructions, our first task was to identify which rods went where.  Once fitted together it becomes clear where the rods go.

Frame roughly assembled

Frame roughly assembled

The base mounts for the elevator assembly was then slid on to the long base rod.  Wooden feet were then added as well as washers, and nuts to keep them all in place.

Elevator base slid on to base threaded rod

Elevator base slid on to base threaded rod

After loosely adding washers and nuts to keep the frame from falling apart, the smooth rod for the elevator assembly was slipped between the two outer pieces of wood.  The base of the rod was then set into the base and the nuts at the top of the structure were adjusted to keep the rod straight vertical.

Elevator assembly rod connected to top of frame

Elevator assembly rod connected to top of frame

The bed was then prepared by adding roller assemblies to it.  These are similar to those used on the elevator assembly.  On the side shown there are three pairs of two rollers.  On the opposite side there are three pairs of three rollers.  In the middle is a single roller which will sit on top of the center smooth rod.

DSC_0332 (Medium)

Assembling rollers onto bed support

The rods for the bottom of the frame were then slipped together.  The goal being to produce the overall assembly shown below.

High level view

High level view

On the motor’s end of the frame, two black rod supports were added on either end.  A longer white support was put in the middle and the motor mount to its right.

Close up of Y-axis motor

Close up of Y-axis motor

On the other side is a similar assembly, but with a roller bracket support in place of the motor.

Bed support

Bed support

Closer up you can see the multitude of nuts and washers needed to keep everything in its place.  You can also see how the belt will be positioned later on.

Bed support bracket close-up

Bed support bracket close-up

Once everything was loose fitted, the rod with three rollers on it was slid out and the bed installed.  Once the outer frame was squared and leveled, the rod with three rollers was aligned a specific distance from the outer bracket.  The other rod supports were then shifted as needed so that they ran straight under their respective rollers.

Bed positioned for alignment

Bed positioned for alignment