Transformer Chassis Seat - vertical mounting of Antek 300/400VA (3D Print Files)

[birdbox]

UPDATE NOTE: If you want to use an Antek 400VA transformer with this seat, you do need to use some 10-15mm spacers for the 130mm pipe strap. The slightly larger diameter of the 400VA over the 300VA transformer means there's a gap that exists between the chassis perforated plate and the strap ends. If you don't care what it looks like, then spacers really aren't needed as they don't increase the strength of the "grip". You do need to use longer M4 bolts (M4 10-12mm work for a 300VA, but 20-25mm are needed for 400VA. The spacers just make a cleaner look is all by flattening the tabs (see pics at end of this post and associated ZIP file with the 11mm spacer 3D file). Don't buy 150mm straps and think they'll fix the issue as those are too long. Stick with 130mm and either use spacers, or live with floating tabs (secure as a rock with either option).

I'm posting the 3D print files here for the Transformer Chassis Seat I created for my F5m build. Version 2 is now the most up to date (3-19-2024), which simply allows a "lip up" option to the perforated pate. The title to this thread says "Antek", but this may work for other transformers with similar widths/diameters. Making tweaks for other transformers is not hard, so feel free to reach out via PM to create a new version for other transformers.

For now, please see pictures from my build in the F5m Kit thread here: https://www.diyaudio.com/community/threads/f5m-kit.408290/post-7627904

Below is a zip file which contains both version 1 and version 2 STL & 3MF files for anyone to download and use however they see fit.

• Version 1 - Original Design, no slot for "lip up" perforated plate orientation. [I don't see any reason to use this since Version 2, does what this does and more. However, maybe being 2mm closer to the bottom is beneficial for a few folks.]
• Version 2 - 2mm Taller (allows more squish and squeeze) and has a slot to allow for "lip up" orientation of perforated plate if you go that route. Pics below are of version 2 showing the slot.

Hardware required:

• 2x qty: M4x10mm bolts with standard nuts to mount the seat to the chassis. [2x bolt and 2x nut]
• 2x qty: M4x10mm (or 12mm) bolts with lock nut, or lock washers, and fender washers to hold the pipe strap down. [2x bolt, 2x locknut, 2x fender washer]
  • NOTE: If you want to use a 400VA transformer you'll need M4 x 20mm bolts (25mm also works). Spacers are not a requirement, but will certainly make it look more professional. Spacer print is attached below, or use any spacer that is between 10-15mm.
• 1x qty: 130mm Stainless Steal Pipe Strap with Rubber Cushion (cost is around $2 or $3 for one, but you typically have to buy more than one)

Assembly

• Start by mounting the seat itself and ensure transformer has a little clearance around it.
• Set the transformer up with the wires off to sides to avoid interfering with sides of seat.
• Loosely attach one side of the pipe strap with the lock nut.
• With your three hands (yeah, a third hand would help as its tricky), put the other end of the strap on compressing the transformer into the squishy seat to get the nut to thread.
• Tighten it all up nice and tight....all done.

More to come as I try out different designs and try to make something that's more "universal" for different applications.

Here's a 400VA using 20mm M4 bolts without spacers. Still crazy secure, but kinda looks "janky". (not that anyone sees this once case is closed up)

Here's what the 400VA transformner looks like using 11mm 3D printed spacers. Just looks better, but no more, or less secure. Purely cosmetic.