This is a cover image about install the leg extensions of the LOKLiK iEngrave.

How to Install the Leg Extensions of the LOKLiK iEngrave™

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After purchasing the LOKLiK iEngrave™, it is time to install the often-overlooked accessories, the leg extensions. Although it may seem like a simple add-on, proper installation plays a crucial role, preventing wobbling, inconsistent engraving and cutting, and enhancing the device’s overall performance. A wrong installation could easily reverse all the above benefits. This is why it is crucial to follow these step-by-step installation instructions.

The Items You Will Need for the Installation

The leg extensions – they come in 2 preassembled sets

A sturdy working surface

A laser engraving machine

Leg Extension Installation Instructions When Engraving on Thin Materials

Follow these steps if you are engraving on thinner materials such as a wallet, thin wood, leather cards, coasters, rolling pins, etc.

The image shows step 1 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 1: Take out the leg extensions. The LOKLiK laser engraving machine comes with 2 sets of leg extensions. One is 1 by 4, and the other a 2 by 4. For this part, we will be using the extension leg 1.

The image shows step 2 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 2: Attach the extension pad to the leg extension and screw it in until the pad is in contact with the extension. Repeat this process for all four extensions, ensuring they are all from the same set.

The image shows step 3 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 3: Flip the metal base upside down on a sturdy desk. Screw all 4 extension legs to the screw ports at the corners of the unit’s base.

The image shows step 4 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 4: Flip over the metal base to stand on the extensions. It will give you the perfect room to engrave on thin items.

The image shows step 5 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Leg Extension Installation Instructions When Engraving on Thick Materials

Thicker materials such as tumblers, over 15 mm wood, cast acrylic, etc, require a higher working space. To achieve this, you have to raise the metal body even higher.

The image shows step 6 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 1: If you have already followed the steps above, remove the extension pads from all the legs. Then, take out leg extension 2 from the packaging.

The image shows step 7 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 2: Stack both leg extension 1 and leg extension 2 together and screw them tightly.

The image shows step 9 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 3: Attach the extension pads to the end of the legs and screw them.

The image shows step 10 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 4: Screw the extension legs to the ports at the corners of the base. The legs should not wobble if they are tight enough.

The image shows step 11 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Step 5: Flip over the metal body to stand on the extensions, and you will be all set to engrave on thick materials.

The image shows step 12 of installing the leg extension for LOKLiK iEngrave.

Why You Should Install the Leg Extensions

The leg extensions elevate the laser engraving machine, allowing enough airflow beneath it. This helps dissipate all the fumes produced while engraving and cutting, and in cooling it down. The raised legs also increase the workspace clearance, providing some extra room for accessories such as cords. Lastly, it improves the engraver’s general balance and minimizes the vibrations during operations for a quiet and comfortable working environment.

FAQs on Installation of Leg extensions

1. Is it okay to get more clearance or raise the engraver higher than the leg extensions allow?

If done correctly and carefully, it is technically okay. However, this might affect its stability if the new platform is not levelled, and consequently distort the beam focus. It may also compromise your safety while engraving.

2. How do I verify the correct leg extension length?

The LOKLiK package comes with the correct extensions, both in height and alignment with the screw holes. If you are making a secondary purchase, ensure the extensions and ports match the measurement specifications in the original LOKLiK laser engraver product manual. Do not attempt to level out mismatched legs with makeshift padding, as it affects the balance.

3. Why does my engraver wobble after installing the leg extensions?

Wobbling might be caused by uneven leg length. This is more likely to be a result of not fully tightening the legs, rather than it would be mismatched leg set or a manufacturing defect. It can also be caused by improperly installing the legs by cross-threading screws or working on an uneven workspace that causes instability.

4. Is it okay to replace stock length with alternative legs in the future?

Yes. You can add 3D-printed legs or adjustable-height metallic legs to make it easier to change the height for different projects. These alternative legs might, however, not accurately support the engraver’s weight or vibration resistance as compared to those from the LOKLiK manufacturer. Replacing original stock parts might also void parts of the warranty.

5. Is it okay to use both stacked leg extensions to engrave on thin materials?

No. Due to the big difference in height from the material to the engraver, the laser beam focus will be misaligned. The defocused beam will then scatter the laser, leading to blurry engraved designs. For thin materials, only use the extension leg 1 set.

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