Description
A clogged nozzle is a common occurrence, especially for new users still learning to load an unload filament. It’s also typically a very easy problem to fix.
Process
- Power off the machine.
- If filament is still loaded, cut the filament off above the extruder.
- Slide the extruder all the way to the right. Unscrew the two screws on the bottom of the fan that blows against the extruder. Remove the fan and heatsink. Pay attention to how it comes apart so you can reassemble. Take care not to lose the spacers that go between the fan and heatsink.
- Inspect the filament path. You should be able to remove the extruder motor now. (The reason for sliding the extruder all the way to the right was to keep it from falling off and damaging the bed or the motor.) Unplug the wires to the motor and set it aside.
- Inspect the big aluminum block (cooling block) where the filament enters it. You can probably see the filament stuck in the hole. Cut off any sticking out that can be easily cut. Turn on the machine and heat the extruder a little hotter than the recommended print temperature for the currently loaded filament (220 degrees for PLA, for example).
- If necessary, and using care not to burn yourself, clean off the exterior of the nozzle. I use a paper towel dampened with alcohol.
- Use the smallest hex wrench that came with the set and push it into the hole in the cooling block until the opening is clear. You’ll probably see filament coming out. Turn the machine off and let it cool.
- Inspect the extruder motor, specifically the gear. Use a small brush, an old toothbrush or a clean paintbrush from a water color set, to clean the extruder gear. The old filament should just brush right off.
- Reassemble the extruder motor, fan, and heatsink. Pre-heat and reload the filament.
Take care to properly unload and reload filament in the future using the process shown in this video.
