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Top layer under extrusion and extruder issues  

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strangnet
(@strangnet)
Active Member
Top layer under extrusion and extruder issues

I received my Mini+, pre-assembled version, yesterday and I have huge issues with good reliable top layers using the Galaxy Silver PLA. All settings are default and it's obviously under extruding. Also, the extruder itself is really difficult to work with, both loading and sometimes unloading filament. I've tried tensioning and releasing the idler screw but I can't seem to get it to work reliably.

Are there any good tips on how to get it to print reliably? I was hoping not to have do too much tinkering with the printer, as I used to do all the time with a Wanhao i3 a couple of years ago, but this is not a good start, especially since it's a Prusa filament and a prusa sliced model on a fresh Prusa printer.

 

Best Answer by strangnet:

After chatting with support, the missing parts are now en route with UPS.

Meanwhile I tried printing them in PLA to hopefully achieve a temporary reliability increase with the printer, and I managed to both print a wheel and a pin with good quality as well as install them and get a much better filament loading and extrusion.

https://www.prusaprinters.org/prints/75275-extruder-idler-wheel-for-prusa-mini

Posted : 03/09/2021 8:19 am
Diem
 Diem
(@diem)
Illustrious Member

That looks like your extruder idler tension is off, probably too loose.

First check the extruder gears are not clogged with filament dust, they are probably OK but a stiff brush will clear them if not.

Look at: https://help.prusa3d.com/en/article/idler-screw-tension_177367

This will give you a starting position, then, as you attempt to load, gently tweak the idler screw until you find your optimum setting.

From your picture I suspect your next issue will be cofiguring your first layer Z level, but let's deal with this one first.

Cheerio,

Posted : 03/09/2021 10:52 am
strangnet
(@strangnet)
Active Member
Topic starter answered:
Missing parts in extruder?

After opening up the extruder, I think it might actually miss the wheel that the idler screw is pushing on the filament so the extruder gear can pull the filament. Shouldn't there be something in the F4 part below? I don't understand how it even accomplishes any extrusion at all. I've emailed customer support about it.

 

Posted : 03/09/2021 10:57 am
strangnet
(@strangnet)
Active Member
Topic starter answered:
Shaft and bearing missing

Looking at the assembly instructions in https://help.prusa3d.com/en/guide/3-x-axis-extruder-assembly_199519#201004 there should be a shaft and a bearing. Unfortunate that the QC didn't catch this when testing the printer before shipping.

Posted : 03/09/2021 11:22 am
jcjames_13009
(@jcjames_13009)
Estimable Member
Gear on motor axis

Hi

Gear should be screwed on extruder motor shaft

https://help.prusa3d.com/en/guide/3-x-axis-extruder-assembly_199519#200725

JC

 

Prusa MINI+ at home / Prusa MK3S+ in the Fab Lab / You can have a look at my designs here printables.com

Posted : 03/09/2021 12:22 pm
Diem
 Diem
(@diem)
Illustrious Member

I've emailed customer support about it.

The better way to call support: Log into your Eshop account, navigate to support and live chat is at bottom right in most browsers. If not you may need to disable your ad-blocker temporarily.

Cheerio,

Posted : 03/09/2021 3:35 pm
gald33 liked
strangnet
(@strangnet)
Active Member
Topic starter answered:
Customer Support helped

After chatting with support, the missing parts are now en route with UPS.

Meanwhile I tried printing them in PLA to hopefully achieve a temporary reliability increase with the printer, and I managed to both print a wheel and a pin with good quality as well as install them and get a much better filament loading and extrusion.

https://www.prusaprinters.org/prints/75275-extruder-idler-wheel-for-prusa-mini

Posted : 03/09/2021 3:49 pm
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