Wired Extruder with Stepper Motor i3 Mega S

[Van32]

Hello!
I ordered a new stepper motor from a website to convert to direct drive: nema 17 stepper motor
Since the new motor has permanently soldered cables and the original cables from the extruder motor are too short anyway, I wanted to solder part of the original cables to the new motor cables. What is the best way to measure the A+, A-, etc. on the cables?
Or does anyone know what the original cables were for or how they came out of the board?

 

[Uncle Gizmo]

Hello Van32,

Your question is an intriguing mix of technical curiosity and... shall we say, creative phrasing? Let’s unpack it together.

Firstly, stepper motors like your NEMA 17 typically have four wires for two coils. Matching these wires to your board involves either consulting the datasheet or—if you’re feeling adventurous—using a multimeter to identify the pairs. That said, the mention of A+ and A- sounds like you might be mixing up motor wiring with control board labeling. A quick clarification on where those labels come from could help us steer you in the right direction.

Now, as for the motor replacement—“converting to direct drive”? That phrase doesn’t quite land, since stepper motors are inherently direct drive. Perhaps you’re converting a Bowden extruder to direct drive? If so, it seems like you’re tackling two projects at once: rewiring a motor and re-engineering your setup. Ambitious!

But here’s the thing: If the original motor worked, why not replace it with an identical model? It saves a world of trouble with compatibility and mounting. Unless, of course, this new motor is offering something revolutionary—higher torque, more precise stepping, or (heaven forbid) RGB lighting?

On a final note, I have to ask—purely out of curiosity—is this question about a genuine project, or a cleverly disguised plug?

Link removed!!!

If it’s the latter, I applaud the effort but suggest brushing up on your motor wiring knowledge first. It’ll help your pitch come across as more credible.

Looking forward to hearing more—whether it’s technical details or a clever comeback!

Response drafted by chat GPT using uncle's direction and limited expertise on 3D printers!

 

[Jon]

Of course, its spam.