Differences between MK2 and MK3 extruder assemblies?
Several months ago I bought a used Prusa printer, sold to me as an MK3. It is my first 3d printer. I have noticed that the images I see of the MK3 have a different extruder assembly, with an angled fan on the front. Attached is an image of my extruder.
What are the differences between these two extruders, and is this an indication that I do, in fact, have an MK2?
Best Answer by ATXPrusaWrangler:
Looks like you have an MK3 but not a MK3S. There is an upgrade kit available here: https://shop.prusa3d.com/en/upgrades/898-original-prusa-i3-mk3-to-mk3s-upgrade-kit.html# .
There are several differences in the extruder, but one of the main ones is that the filament sensor changed. The cooling fan orientation is the most obvious visual difference.
RE: Differences between MK2 and MK3 extruder assemblies?
Looks like you have an MK3 but not a MK3S. There is an upgrade kit available here: https://shop.prusa3d.com/en/upgrades/898-original-prusa-i3-mk3-to-mk3s-upgrade-kit.html# .
There are several differences in the extruder, but one of the main ones is that the filament sensor changed. The cooling fan orientation is the most obvious visual difference.
RE: Differences between MK2 and MK3 extruder assemblies?
Since my printer is printing well, I don't see the need to update to the MK3S upgrade kit for functionality. However, when I do need to do maintenance I really hate how difficult it is to get the extruder and hotend assembly apart. Does the MK3S make it significantly easier to access teh hotend? If it does that alone is worth the cost to me.
RE: Differences between MK2 and MK3 extruder assemblies?
No it doesnt. There are a few differences, the biggest being the change of the filament sensor to one that uses a magnet/steelball and opto switch from the mk3's. In my opinion that was a backwards step.
The fan angle and parts fan shroud also changed and there was a minor 'fix' to the filament path. That's probably the most useful change but its not worth it on its own imo.
If you really want to change things up them print out and build one of the geared extruder updates. I did the Bunny & Bear for the mk3. That allowed me to keep the mk3 filament sensor but with a small bearing so that it works with all filament types including transparent which the stock mk3 had trouble with sometimes. Doesnt really make taking it apart that much easier but it does help. If I was to do it now I would go for the short ears update https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3606189
Or just keep on with the Mk3 as its a very good printer as is.
RE: Differences between MK2 and MK3 extruder assemblies?
Since my printer is printing well, I don't see the need to update to the MK3S upgrade kit for functionality. However, when I do need to do maintenance I really hate how difficult it is to get the extruder and hotend assembly apart. Does the MK3S make it significantly easier to access teh hotend? If it does that alone is worth the cost to me.
The upgrade doesn't really change maintenance access in any big way. I've stuck with my original Mk3 configuration and am having no issues.