GT2 Belt Tension Meter Hardware Kit by PF Makes

This precision hardware kit developed by PF Makes enables you to build a professional-grade 3D printed tension meter designed to measure belt deflection to determine belt tension for Gates 6 and 9mm GT2 belts. The goal is to eliminate the need for phone apps that use frequency to determine tension and to provide an easily quantifiable and repeatable number to use when tensioning belts on a 3D printer.

Precision & Accuracy Specifications

• Measurement Accuracy: ±1.0N (0.25lb) accuracy on a carefully built and calibrated meter
• Measurement Method: Belt deflection-based system providing quantifiable, repeatable tension readings
• Calibration Standard: Includes precision-cut tempered music wire for accurate calibration
• Professional Repeatability: Eliminates guesswork and provides consistent measurements across multiple readings

Complete Hardware Kit Contents

This is a hardware components only kit – you must 3D print the required parts yourself.

Included Professional-Grade Components:

• 1x BOM-specification 50mm compression spring (20 active coils)
• 1x 100mm Pre-cut tempered calibration wire (K&S Precision Metals #5501)
• 1x M3x25 SHCS (Socket Head Cap Screw)
• 1x M3x6 BHCS (Button Head Cap Screw)
• 1x M3x8 stainless steel washer
• 2x M2x10 self-tapping screws
• 1x 3mm drill bit for precision assembly
• 1x Cotton swab with chamfered end for grease application

Compatibility & Requirements

Compatible Printer Models: Tested on the following printers: Voron Trident, 2.4, V.0, Salad Fork, and Switchwire

Belt Compatibility:

• Gates 6mm GT2 belts
• Gates 9mm GT2 belts
• Standard rubber and EPDM high-temperature belts

Critical Limitations:

• Requires clear access to at least 150mm of belt
• This meter will not work on printers with belts that run inside of the extrusion channels
• For non-listed printers, verify adequate belt access before ordering

Professional Features

• Deflection-Based Measurement: More reliable than frequency-based phone apps
• Quantifiable Results: Provides precise numerical readings instead of subjective “feel”
• Calibrated System: Professional-grade calibration wire ensures measurement accuracy
• Repeatable Process: Consistent results across multiple measurements and operators

Required 3D Printed Parts

STL Files Required: You must download and print the mechanical components from the official repository: Download STL Files Here

Assembly Instructions: Complete assembly manual and calibration procedures available at: Assembly Manual

Why Choose This Professional Solution?

The repeatability and accuracy of this meter will be partially dependent on the build quality but you can expect approximately ± 1.0N (0.25lb) accuracy on a carefully built and calibrated meter. This precision hardware kit eliminates the inconsistencies of frequency-based measurement apps and provides the professional-grade components needed for accurate, repeatable belt tension measurements essential for optimal 3D printer performance.

Perfect for: Voron builders, precision 3D printing enthusiasts, and anyone requiring professional-grade belt tension measurement capabilities.

Note: This kit contains hardware components only. 3D printed parts must be fabricated separately using the provided STL files.