Introduction: Why Proper Leg Extension Installation Matters
After purchasing the LOKLiK iEngrave™, it's time to install the often-overlooked accessories — the leg extensions. Although they may seem like a simple add-on, proper installation plays a crucial role in 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's crucial to follow these step-by-step installation instructions.
The leg extensions are more than just an accessory — they're a functional upgrade that directly impacts the quality of your engraving work. Whether you're working on thin leather coasters or thick wooden tumbler blanks, the right installation ensures your laser engraver operates at peak performance.
In this guide, I'll walk you through both installation scenarios: thin materials like wallets and coasters, and thick materials like tumblers and cast acrylic. Let's get started.
Items You'll Need for the Installation
Before you begin, make sure you have these items ready:
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The leg extensions — they come in 2 preassembled sets (Leg Set 1 and Leg Set 2)
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A sturdy working surface — a flat, stable table or workbench
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The laser engraving machine — LOKLiK iEngrave or compatible model
💡 Quick Tip: Make sure your working surface is level. Even a slight tilt can cause wobbling that affects engraving precision. If you're unsure, use a spirit level to check before starting.
Installing Leg Extensions for Thin Materials
Follow these steps if you are engraving on thinner materials such as a wallet, thin wood, leather cards, coasters, rolling pins, and similar items. These materials require a moderate working clearance — just enough to allow proper airflow while keeping the laser head close to the work surface.
Step 1: Take out the leg extensions. The LOKLiK laser engraving machine comes with 2 sets of leg extensions. One is 1×4, and the other is 2×4. For this part, we will be using extension leg set 1.
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.
⚠️ Important: Do not mix leg extensions from different sets. Using mismatched legs will cause the machine to sit unevenly, leading to wobbling and inconsistent engraving results. Keep Leg Set 1 and Leg Set 2 separate.
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.
Step 4: Flip over the metal base to stand on the extensions. It will give you the perfect room to engrave on thin items.
Installing Leg Extensions for Thick Materials
Thicker materials such as tumblers, wood over 15 mm thick, cast acrylic, and similar items require a higher working space. To achieve this, you have to raise the metal body even higher by stacking both leg extension sets.
Step 1: If you have already followed the steps above, remove the extension pads from all the legs. Then, take out leg extension set 2 from the packaging.
Step 2: Stack both leg extension 1 and leg extension 2 together and screw them tightly. Make sure the threads align properly before tightening.
⚠️ Cross-Thread Alert: When screwing the legs together, start threading by hand first to avoid cross-threading. If you feel resistance, back out and try again. Forcing a cross-threaded screw will damage the threads and compromise the stability of your engraver.
Step 3: Attach the extension pads to the end of the legs and screw them in firmly.
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.
🔧 Quick Stability Check: After tightening all legs, gently push down on each corner of the engraver. If any corner gives way or wobbles, tighten that leg further. A stable base is essential for precise engraving.
Step 5: Flip over the metal body to stand on the extensions, and you will be all set to engrave on thick materials.
Why You Should Install the Leg Extensions
The leg extensions elevate the laser engraving machine, allowing enough airflow beneath it to dissipate fumes, improving cooling, increasing workspace clearance, and enhancing overall stability during operation.
Here are the specific benefits:
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Improved fume dissipation: The raised legs create space for air to flow beneath the engraver, helping to carry away smoke and fumes produced during cutting and engraving. This keeps your work area cleaner and protects the machine's internal components.
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Better cooling: Increased airflow around the machine helps dissipate heat, reducing the risk of overheating during long engraving sessions. This is especially important when working with thicker materials that require more time and power.
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Enhanced workspace clearance: The added height provides extra room for cords, cables, and accessories underneath the machine, keeping your workspace organized and reducing the risk of tripping or accidental disconnections.
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Increased stability and reduced vibration: The leg extensions improve the engraver's general balance and minimize vibrations during operation, creating a quieter and more comfortable working environment. Less vibration also means more precise engraving results.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 possible. However, this might affect its stability if the new platform is not leveled, and consequently distort the beam focus. It may also compromise your safety while engraving. We recommend using only the official leg extensions provided with your machine.
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 and can lead to unstable operation.
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 mismatched leg sets 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. Double-check all four legs and ensure they are tightened evenly.
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 compared to those from the LOKLiK manufacturer. Replacing original stock parts might also void parts of the warranty. If you choose to use alternative legs, proceed with caution and test thoroughly.
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. Using the stacked setup on thin materials will actually produce worse results, not better.
How often should I check the leg extensions for tightness?
We recommend checking the tightness of all four legs before every major engraving session. Vibrations from prolonged use can gradually loosen the screws, especially if you're working with heavy or uneven materials. A quick check takes only 30 seconds and can prevent costly mistakes. Keep a small hex wrench or screwdriver near your workstation for easy adjustments.
Conclusion
Installing the leg extensions on your LOKLiK iEngrave is a simple but essential step that significantly improves the performance and stability of your laser engraving machine. Whether you're working on thin leather coasters or thick wooden tumblers, the right installation ensures consistent results, better fume dissipation, and a safer working environment.
The key takeaway: use the right set for the right material. Leg Set 1 for thin materials, both sets stacked for thick materials. And always double-check that all four legs are tightened evenly before starting your project.
Ready to start engraving? Make sure your legs are on, your workspace is level, and your creativity is unlocked!
✅ Quick Checklist: Leg Extension Installation
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Identify your material thickness — thin (use Leg Set 1) or thick (stack both sets)
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Prepare your workspace — level, sturdy surface
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Attach extension pads — screw pads onto all four legs
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Install legs — flip base upside down, screw legs to corner ports
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For thick materials — stack Leg Set 1 + Leg Set 2 before attaching pads
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Check stability — press each corner to ensure no wobbling
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Tighten all screws — hand-tighten first, then use tools for final torque
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Flip and test — turn upright and test with a practice engraving
📚 Keep Learning: More Guides to Level Up Your Craft
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