Introduction: 3D Print Intermatic Timer Trippers

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If you have ever used an Intermatic TN-series Timer, particularly for hydroponic gardening, you soon learn the frustration caused by the little plastic timer trippers that are necessary to turn the current on and off according to schedule. The most frustrating thing perhaps, is that there never seem to be enough of them in the box (typically 3 ON and 3 OFF), and a 4-pack of more of this little plastic gems costs as much as a new timer!

If you have access to a 3D Printer, you can 3d print your own in a little over 10 minutes for pennies apiece.

What you will need:

*These files were created by Thingverse user ppl117 under the Creative Commons - Attribution - Share Alike license

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Step 1: Prep Printer and Load Files

Following the instructions included with your printer, calibrate the printer, install filament, and apply BuildTak to print bed.

*The following instructions are specific to the M3D Micro 3D Printer

Start the M3D software if you haven't already for calibration. Select "Open Model" and select the .stl file for the OFF tripper from the included .zip file. Click Print. On the options screen, make sure the only option that is checked is "Use Raft." Begin printing.

Step 2: Finishing Touches

Once the printer has completed printing, remove the tripper and raft from the print bed. Using a pocket knife or other fine edge, pry the tripper away from the raft. Your tripper is ready to use! Repeat the process for the ON tripper.

4 New OEM Trippers are $12.00 online.

A spool of ABS filament is $22.00 online for approximately 330 meters.

A tripper needs about .8 meters of filament which comes to less that 7 cents per tripper or 4 trippers for less than 28 cents.