Convert Monoprice Maker Select Plus 3D to Wanhao Duplicator I3 Plus

So, the question that always pops up is: How different is the "Monoprice Maker Select Plus" to the "Wanhao Duplicator i3 Plus?" Well, knowing that Wanhao is the OEM maker of the "Maker Select Plus"... then the assumption and answer would be "none, what so ever..."

However, I wanted to test this and also since I have to pop the control panel open, might as well do 2 quick "fixes" (hacks?)

Step 1: QUICK Fix 1...

Ironically, I'll say this now... IF you are worried about the 1 year warranty do not do the following steps...

As for those of us who don't really care about the warranty... You'll notice that the front panel has a stripped screw and the other 2 on the right in my specific unit were crooked. So, I'll be changing those with Stainless steel hex screws and lock nuts

Step 2: What You'll Need...

Hex driver 1.5mm

T-handle hex set (M2, M3, M4)

304 Stainless screws (M3 x 12mm)

M3 x 0.5mm Lock nut (Zinc plated or 304 Stainless )

Note: All these can be found on Amazon...

Step 3: Give It a Hard Twist!

I am guessing the guys over at Wanhao used some Loctite... some of the screws were a little hard to remove...

So, the first steps to replace the little black screws on the front of the unit are:

> Remove and replace only one screw at a time. (to keep the alignment of the Y-axis rails)

> Make sure the new screw is in tight.

> Do not put the lock nuts yet.

After the screws have been replaced, you'll need to loosen the screws holding the Y-axis rails and then remove the 2 large screws on the front panel to gain access to the back comfortably... as shown in the pictures...

Carefully, move the front panel plate and place it flat on the table... you may now install the 4 lock nuts using a 5.5mm socket wrench...

BEFORE you put it back together let's do quick fix (update # 2)...

Step 4: QUICK FIX # 2: Update Firmware... (hack?)

So, we'll be installing the new Firmware version 3 from Wanhao's website to the MonoPrice 3D printer.

( Wanhao FAQ for Duplicator i3Plus )

As per the images, you might need to check if your unit has the SD card cutout. Else, you'll need to pop open the LCD metal cover.

Insert the SD card with the new firmware (from Wanhao's website.) Turn on the printer and it should start the update automatically. By the way, this is a 2 step process... After updating the LCD firmware you'll need to update the motherboard firmware...

Connect the printer via USB to your PC / MAC and upload the motherboard firmware using CURA, under:

Machine> Install Custom Firmware.

After selecting the firmware, the update will be installed automatically...

Step 5: QUICK FIX # 3: the Transformation...

Well, since you already did the firmware update might as well do the logo too...

Just print and stick it in place!

The logo plate comes from "JMDesigns" ( https://www.thingiverse.com/JMDesigns/)

You are now done...

(*Just follow the instructions in reverse order to assemble the display back in place)