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3A. MK3 Extruder upgrade

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3A. MK3 Extruder upgrade

3A. MK3 Extruder upgrade
Relevant for:
Last updated 3 years ago
3A. MK3 Extruder upgrade
 Difficulty
Very difficult
 Steps
65
 Available languages
CSPLDEESITFR
Few tips before we start
Few tips before we start
Few tips before we start
This is the most important and hardest chapter. So take your time and don't rush. A properly assembled extruder is essential.
The bag with fasteners includes M3x20 and M3x18 screws. Make sure not to mix them! Pay attention to the instructions, when to use the M3x20.
Keep the magnets a sufficient distance apart. They can break each other!
The hotend for MK3S+ needs a shorter PTFE tube compared to the MK3 (more info at help.prusa3d.com/PTFE-MK3S+).
Pay careful attention to the cable management. If you miss some important steps you will need to disassemble the extruder.
This bag includes extra fasteners. Don't worry if you finish with few unused screws and nuts.
Extruder-body parts preparation
Extruder-body parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
M3x18 screw (1x)
M3x10 screw (1x)
M3nS nut (2x)
M3n nut (2x)
Steel ball (1x)
Magnet 10x6x2 (1x)
Magnet 20x6x2 (1x)
Extruder-body assembly
Extruder-body assembly
Extruder-body assembly
Extruder-body assembly
Take the M3nS nut and insert it in the Extruder-body. Make sure the nut is all the way in.
Ensure correct alignment of the nuts using the Allen key.
Secure the nut using an M3x10 screw. Tighten the screw just slightly. Later on we will need to add the SuperPINDA sensor here.
Take two M3n nuts and insert them in.
Use the screw pulling technique.
Flip the Extruder-body and insert one M3nS nut all the way in the part.
Take the smaller magnet (10x6x2) and insert it carefully in the FS-lever. The majority of the magnet will be hidden inside the printed part.
FS-lever assembly
FS-lever assembly
FS-lever assembly
Insert the FS-lever in the body.
Secure the part with a M3x18. Tighten it, but ensure the lever can move freely.
WARNING: make sure the following procedure is done right, otherwise the filament sensor won't work!!!
Insert the bigger magnet (20x6x2) in the Extruder-body. It will still stick out:
Incorrect setup: magnets are attracting each other, thus the lever is pulled to the left.
Correct setup: magnets are repelling each other, thus the lever is pushed to the right.
Steel ball assembly
Steel ball assembly
Steel ball assembly
Take the printed part Adapter-printer and insert the steel ball in.
Roll with the ball to all sides to ensure smooth movement.
In case of any rough surface, remove the ball and clean the inside of the printed part.
Place the printer part together with the steel ball in the Extruder-body. See the rounded protrusion on the printed part. It must fit to the groove in the Extruder-body. The surfaces of both parts should be almost aligned.
DON'T use any screw to secure the Adapter-printer. It should hold inside the Extruder-body by itself.
Extruder-motor-plate assembly
Extruder-motor-plate assembly
Extruder-motor-plate assembly
Take the Extruder-motor-plate and secure it using two M3x10 screws. Use the cable as a guide to properly orient the part.
Resist the temptation to place a screw in the third hole! Leave it for later ;)
There is a "channel" for the filament inside the printed part. Make sure the teeth on the pulley are aligned with it.
Bondtech gear alignment
Bondtech gear alignment
Bondtech gear alignment
Bondtech gear alignment
Take a piece of the 1.75 filament. You can use the bundled one on a spool, don't use the black nylon, which is too thick. Straighten the filament as much as possible.
Place the filament along the path and align the gear properly.
The filament will be always slightly bent. Use it anyway for the initial alignment.
For a final check replace the filament with an Allen key. Bear in mind, the key has slightly different size than the filament.
Tighten the screw slightly to temporarily fix it. We will make the final check and tightening later on. Be careful, you can strip the thread.
Don't use any glue to fix the screw in place, you won't be able to release it, in such case you might have to replace the entire motor.
Extruder-cover part preparation
Extruder-cover part preparation
Extruder-cover part preparation
For this step, please prepare:
Extruder-cover (1x)
M3nS nut (1x)
Slide the nut all the way in.
Ensure correct alignment using the Allen key.
Leave the hole on the "arm" empty for now. We will use it later, while assembling a print fan.
The list continues in the next step...
Hotend parts preparation
Hotend parts preparation
Hotend parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
Hotend for the MK3S+ (1x)
Make sure you have replaced the hotend PTFE tube in the previous chapter. MK3 tube is not compatible with MK3S+.
M3x40 screw (2x)
M3x10 screw (2x)
Hotend assembly
Hotend assembly
Hotend assembly
Hotend assembly
Take two M3x10 screws and insert them in the holes. Doing this now makes the assembly slightly easier, but both holes are shallow and the screws might fall out. If this happens, you can continue without them and put them back later on (you will be notified later). Also note, that in few upcoming pictures the screws might be missing.
Hotend assembly was completely reworked from MK3 to avoid bad placement. Also any future maintenance is much easier.
Place the hotend next to the Extruder-body. See the grooves in the printed part which share the shape with the hotend.
Correctly placed hotend. The hotend cables should point to the left, we will align them in the next step.
Extruder assembly
Extruder assembly
Extruder assembly
Extruder assembly
In order to protect the hotend cables and ensure proper orientation, it is highly recommended to use a box. Use the one provided in the kit.
Place the Extruder-body with the hotend on the box and make sure the cables are on the left side and pointing down.
Place your finger temporarily on the longer magnet and place the extruder motor assembly on the Extruder-body. The Bondtech gear might pull the magnet out while assembling parts together.
Make sure both parts are aligned.
Place the Extruder-cover on the Extruder-body. Again, make sure that all three parts are properly aligned.
Insert two M3x40 screws, you've prepared earlier. Tighten them but be careful. They are slightly longer (2-3 mm), than the thickness of the entire assembly.
Place the extruder aside for a few steps, we need to prepare another part. Leave it on the box to prevent damaging the cables.
X-carriage parts preparation
X-carriage parts preparation
X-carriage parts preparation
X-carriage parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
X-carriage (1x)
M3n nut (2x)
M3nS nut (4x)
New IR-sensor cable (1x)
Make sure you have prepared the proper IR-sensor cable. The version for MK3S+ has only three wires.
X-carriage assembly
X-carriage assembly
X-carriage assembly
For the following nut insertion USE A SCREW. THAT'S AN ORDER!!! Seriously use a screw to pull the nuts in. Both have to be properly seated in the X-carriage.
Take both M3n nuts and using pliers (or screw) push them in the X-carriage, then using a screw from the other side, pull them all the way in.
Don't forget to remove the screw.
Take all four M3nS nuts and insert them in. Ensure correct alignment using the Allen key.
From now on, keep in mind the nuts are inside, avoid rotating the X-carriage "downwards", or the nuts might fall out.
Assembling the IR-sensor cable
Assembling the IR-sensor cable
Assembling the IR-sensor cable
Take the IR-sensor cable and locate the end with the smaller connector.
Place cable in the X-carriage, use the small printed overhangs to keep the cable inside.
The distance between the connector and the X-carriage should be around 15 mm (0.6 inch). We will adjust it later.
Guide the cable through the slot. Remember this path, we will use it for other cables as well.
Assembling the X-carriage
Assembling the X-carriage
Following cable management is CRUCIAL for the extruder TO WORK PROPERLY! Read the instructions carefully.
Start by making a small loop just below the extruder motor. Leave a slack about 2-3 cm (0.8 - 1.2 inch). This is comes handy for easier disassembly in the future.
Then guide the cable in the "channel" all the way to the back.
Slightly bend the cable down to form it around the edge.
Also, prepare the X-carriage, both M3x10 screws (if you haven't used them already) and the longest Allen key with the ball-end, you will need it.
Assembling the X-carriage
Assembling the X-carriage
Assembling the X-carriage
Assembling the X-carriage
Following cable management is CRUCIAL for the extruder TO WORK PROPERLY! Read the instructions carefully.
Before you assemble the X-carriage, check the nuts in the Extruder body are still in place. The upper nut sometimes falls out.
Grab the X-carriage and place it onto the back of the extruder assembly as shown in the picture.
Make sure the motor cable follows the channel both in Extruder-body and X-carriage. In the X-carriage the motor cable will follow the path of the IR-sensor cable.
ENSURE NO WIRE IS PINCHED! Then use the M3x10 screw and Allen key with ball end to connect both parts together. If you are inserting the screw at this moment, it will be slightly inclined in the beginning, but it will "straighten up" after few turns. Don't tighten the screw completely, we need to adjust the IR-sensor cable.
Turn the extruder to the other side and if needed insert the second M3x10 screw. Don't tighten the screw, we need to adjust the IR-sensor cable.
IR-sensor parts preparation
IR-sensor parts preparation
IR-sensor parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
New Prusa IR-sensor (1x)
M2x8 screw (1x)
M3x40 screw (1x)
BE CAREFUL with the filament sensor, do not touch the PCB nor the chips on it. Hold the PCB from sides.
IR-sensor assembly
IR-sensor assembly
IR-sensor assembly
IR-sensor assembly
Place the IR-sensor on the top of the Extruder-body and secure it with the M2x8. Make sure the black plastic "u-shaped" part is facing down.
Tighten the M2x8 screw. The sensor shouldn't be able to move. Be careful, the PCB isn't indestructible ;)
Connect the cable, mind the correct orientation of the connector and wires.
Leave some slack behind the sensor as in the picture. Don't create a too big loop as it might interfere with the frame. If needed adjust the length by gently pulling/pushing the cable.
Ready? Ok, check once more no cable is pinched and tighten both M3x10 screws installed previously.
IR-sensor assembly
IR-sensor assembly
Finish the sensor assembly by inserting an M3x40 screw.
Make sure all the gaps are gone.
Hotend fan assembly
Hotend fan assembly
Hotend fan assembly
Hotend fan assembly
The fan has two sides. One has a sticker. Make sure this side is facing inside the extruder.
First, create a loop on the cable. Make sure the black protective wrap is close to the edge of the fan. See the picture.
Place the fan on the extruder and proceed in the following manner:
Start by placing the fan's cable in the upper channel
Slide the fan close to the X-carriage and GENTLY PUSH the cable in using an Allen key. Before you push the fan all the way to the left, place the cable in the X-carriage channel.
FINAL CHECK! The fan is oriented with the cable facing up, then the cable goes through the upper channel all the way to the X-carriage. In the X-carriage don't forget to use both channels. Make sure the CABLE ISN'T PINCHED along the way!
Hotend fan assembly
Hotend fan assembly
Use the three M3x14 screws to fix the fan in place. Don't over tighten them, you can break the fan's plastic casing. Also make sure the fan can rotate freely.
Note that the screws are "self-tapping" in the printed parts. There are no nuts.
Leave the last hole empty, for now.
Extruder-idler parts preparation
Extruder-idler parts preparation
Extruder-idler parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
Extruder-idler (1x)
Bondtech WITHOUT the hole for the set screw (1x)
Bearing (2x) might be stuck inside the gear
Shaft (1x)
M3n nut (1x)
M3x40 screw (2x)
Idler spring (1x) place the spring on the screw
Bearing assembly
Bearing assembly
Insert both bearings in the pulley. Be aware that bearings can slip out during assembly.
Extruder-idler assembly
Extruder-idler assembly
Extruder-idler assembly
Extruder-idler assembly
Take M3n nut and place it in the Extruder-idler.
Use the screw pulling technique.
Insert the pulley in idler as shown in the picture.
Slide the shaft through the idler and pulley. Use reasonable force or you will BREAK the printed part. The shaft should be flush with the surface of the printed part.
Place your finger on the bearing and ensure it can rotate freely.
Filament alignment check
Filament alignment check
Let's use this opportunity to check once more the proper alignment of the filament and the Bondtech gear.
Push the filament from the top, through the Bondtech into the PTFE tube.
Check the alignment and if needed, adjust the position.
Tighten the screw, but be careful, you can easily strip it.
REMOVE the filament.
Extruder-idler mounting
Extruder-idler mounting
Extruder-idler mounting
Place the Extruder-idler in place and secure it using a M3x40 screw.
Don't tighten the screw too firmly, it serves as a shaft for the idler. Check that the idler can rotate freely.
FS-cover assembly
FS-cover assembly
Place the FS-cover on the extruder and align it according to the picture.
Insert the M3x10 screw (mind the correct hole) and tighten it.
Tip: If you can't reach the nut, try to align it using an Allen key or pulling it up using a longer full-threaded screw from the spare bag.
Pretensioning the Extruder-idler
Pretensioning the Extruder-idler
Pretensioning the Extruder-idler
Use the M3x40 screw with the spring to introduce tension to the Extruder-idler.
Hold the Extruder-idler on the other side, until the screw reaches the nut.
Since there is only one screw, you need to use a large amount of force. The head of the screw should sit flush or slightly below the surface.
Print-fan-support assembly
Print-fan-support assembly
Print-fan-support assembly
Take the M3n nut and insert it all the way to the support. It is crucial!
Use the screw pulling technique.
Place the support on the extruder and ensure the inclined part is facing "down" (towards the nozzle)
Secure the support using an M3x10 screw.
Fan-shroud parts preparation
Fan-shroud parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
Fan-shroud (1x)
M3x20 screw (1x)
M3nS nut (1x)
If you have printed the fan-shroud yourself, it prints out together with the inner support which needs to be removed first.
Fan-shroud assembly
Fan-shroud assembly
Fan-shroud assembly
Fan-shroud assembly
Insert M3nS nut in the Fan-shroud, all the way in.
Ensure correct alignment using the Allen key.
See the protrusion on the Fan-shroud and the groove in the extruder.
Slide the Fan-shroud into the extruder. Make sure that both protrusions on the Fan-shroud fit in the grooves on the extruder (see the picture).
Secure it using the M3x20 screw. Don't overtighten the screw, you can break the plastic casing. Also make sure the fan can rotate freely.
Print fan parts preparation
Print fan parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
Print fan (1x)
M3x20 screw (2x)
M3n nut (1x)
You need M3x20 screw due to its length. If you have used them accidentally somewhere else, head for the spare bag ;)
Print fan assembly
Print fan assembly
Print fan assembly
Print fan assembly
First, slide the fan in the Fan-shroud and make sure it is aligned properly.
Second, fix the fan in place using one M3x20 screw. Tighten carefully, or you will damage the fan's casing.
Turn the extruder around and insert the M3n nut. No need to pull it in, we will use the screw.
Place the remaining M3x20 screw from the other side and tighten it, but carefully, or you will damage the fan's casing.
Guide the cable according to the picture in the channel. Bend it slightly towards the extruder. DON'T stretch the cable! 
SuperPINDA sensor parts preparation
SuperPINDA sensor parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
SuperPINDA sensor (1x)
Note that the SuperPINDA differs from the previous generation of the PINDA sensor. Now, there are only three wires in the connector.
SuperPINDA sensor assembly
SuperPINDA sensor assembly
Insert SuperPINDA sensor in the holder. Exact position doesn't matter, we will adjust it later.
Tighten the M3x10 screw, but just slightly.
Create a loop on the cable from the sensor.
Push the cable in the channel together with the fan cable.
Extruder preparation and mounting
Extruder preparation and mounting
Extruder preparation and mounting
Extruder preparation and mounting
Insert the zip ties in the X-carriage like in the picture.
Lower the X-axis at about 1/3 from the top.
Turn the printer like in the picture with X-axis motor and shorter extrusions facing towards you. Align the bearings similarly to the picture. The exact position of the lower bearing doesn't matter for now.
Place the extruder on the bearings. The top couple must fit perfectly. Make sure the X-carriage is facing towards you (together with the shorter extrusions).
We will adjust the lower bearing later on.
Tighten and cut the zip ties.
Extruder channels cable management
Extruder channels cable management
Extruder channels cable management
Extruder channels cable management
Place the cables on the SuperPINDA sensor side over the lower smooth rod and push them back in the channel.
Place the cables on the hotend fan side over the lower smooth rod and push them back in the channel.
Align the bearing so it fits nicely in the X-carriage.
X-axis belt parts preparation
X-axis belt parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
X-axis belt (850 mm)
The MK3 X-axis belt may be slightly longer. It doesn't matter, we'll cut it later.
X-axis belt assembly
X-axis belt assembly
Insert the flat part of the X-axis belt into the X-carriage as in the picture.
Use a screwdriver or the smallest Allen key to push the belt in.
X-axis belt assembly
X-axis belt assembly
X-axis belt assembly
X-axis belt assembly
Guide the X-axis belt through the X-end-idler around the 623h bearing with the housing and back.
Continue with the belt through the X-carriage.
Guide the X-axis belt through the X-end-motor around the GT2-16 pulley and back.
X-axis belt assembly
X-axis belt assembly
X-axis belt assembly
First, release the screw used later for fine tuning the belt tension. No need to remove the screw. Just make sure it is loose.
Please release two M3 screws on the X-end.
Rotate the X-axis motor as indicated towards the frame.
Insert the flat part of the X-GT2 belt into the X-carriage as in the second picture.
Use a screwdriver or the smallest Allen key to push the belt in.
There will be belt overhang on this side, DON'T TRIM IT yet.
Tensioning the X-axis belt
Tensioning the X-axis belt
Tensioning the X-axis belt
Using right hand rotate the motor to its original position and hold it (tension is applied to the belt).
Using two fingers on your left hand push the belt together. Very small force should be needed for bending the belt, BUT the belt shouldn't be bent by its own weight before being pressed with your fingers. It must hold straight.
If you are struggling to rotate the motor back into position, the belt tension is too high.
Depending on the belt being under or overstretched, adjust the amount of the belt in the X-carriage.
When done, rotate the motor to its original position and tighten the M3 screws again.
Aligning the X-axis belt
Aligning the X-axis belt
Both top and bottom part of the belt should be parallel (above each other).
To adjust the belt position, release the screws on the pulley and move it slightly until you reach the best position.
Tighten both screws on the pulley.
Testing the X-axis belt
Testing the X-axis belt
Use the technique described below to test if the belt is properly stretched.
Use pliers to hold the X-axis motor shaft.
Move the extruder towards the X-axis motor. Don't use excessive force.
If the belt is stretched properly, you should feel a resistance and the extruder won't move at all. If the belt is too loose, it will deform (create a "wave") and jump over the teeth on the pulley.
Belt too loose? Return to step 49 and repeat all steps until now. You have to rotate the motor and retighten the belt in the X-carriage. Shortening the belt length by moving one or two teeth outside X-carriage should be enough.
Trimming the X-axis belt
Trimming the X-axis belt
Trimming the X-axis belt
Trimming the X-axis belt
For the following step we recommend getting a white marker, but you can also trim the belt without it.
Measure the part, which must be trimmed and gently take the end of the belt away, from the X-carriage, but make sure at least 3-4 teeth are still in the X-carriage, as you don't want to lose the tension. If possible make a mark, where to cut the belt.
Ensure again your mark is in the correct position and the belt is still stretched.
Using pliers cut the belt and push it inside X-carriage. Use screwdriver or Allen key, if needed.
Fine tuning the x-axis belt
Fine tuning the x-axis belt
Fine tuning the x-axis belt
Fine tuning the x-axis belt
In this step, we will finish tensioning the belt. Please read the instructions first, your belt might have proper tension already, then there is no need for additional screw adjustment.
First, slightly release all the screws holding the motor, otherwise, the "tensioner" won't work (the motor must be able to move).
ATTENTION !!! BE EXTREMELY CAREFUL WHILE TIGHTENING, YOU CAN CRACK THE PART IF YOU OVER TIGHT THE SCREW.
Using Allen key start tightening the M3x18 screw inside the X-end-motor, but after each turn or two check the tension in the belt.
For the optimal performance, the belt must be a bit harder to press with your fingers. Move the extruder all the way to the X-end-idler and try the belt tension in the middle of the X-axis.
When you achieve optimal tension, please tighten the screws again.
In case you experience X-axis failure during calibration or skipped layers in the X direction, you can adjust this screw accordingly. Tightening the screw stretches the belt. Releasing the screw has opposite effect. Each time don't forget to release the screws on the motor first.
Nylon guide parts preparation
Nylon guide parts preparation
Nylon guide parts preparation
Nylon guide parts preparation
It is recommended to wear safety glasses while cutting the nylon filament.
For the following steps, please prepare:
Black nylon filament 50 cm / 19.7 inch (1x)
Using the pliers cut one end of the filament to create a tip.
Check the tip is similar to the third picture.
The upgrade package includes new nylon in case yours from the disassembled printer is damaged or no longer rigid enough.
Nylon guide assembly
Nylon guide assembly
Nylon guide assembly
Nylon guide assembly
Locate the hole for the NYLON filament. Using the smallest Allen key ensure there are no obstacles inside.
Using the pliers insert the NYLON filament with the pointed end into the slot and twist it. Hold the extruder with your other hand.
BE EXTREMELY CAREFUL as the pliers tend to slide and you can easily damage the wires!!!
To check if the filament is seated properly, gently pull it with your hand. The X-axis should bend a little, but the filament must remain in the slot.
If you have issues, try to adjust the tip on the filament.
Cable-holder assembly
Cable-holder assembly
Cable-holder assembly
Prepare the M3x40 screw and cable-holder.
Drive the screw all the way through the printed part.
Note there is a recess (slot) for the screw's head on one side of the printed part.
X-carriage-back assembly
X-carriage-back assembly
X-carriage-back assembly
X-carriage-back assembly
Take the M3n nut and place it in the printed part (all the way in).
Use the screw pulling technique.
Rotate the X-carriage-back and tighten it together with the cable-holder.
Check the "u-shaped" slot is aligned properly on both parts.
Mounting the X-carriage-back
Mounting the X-carriage-back
Mounting the X-carriage-back
Mounting the X-carriage-back
Push the cables from the Extruder THROUGH the X-carriage-back. Start with IR-sensor cable, then the extruder motor and hotend fan.
Next, add the print fan and SuperPINDA sensor cables.
Cables from hotend are NOT GOING through the X-carriage-back!
Carefully insert the nylon filament and then slide the X-carriage-back towards the X-axis.
X-carriage-back assembly
X-carriage-back assembly
X-carriage-back assembly
For this step, please prepare:
M3x10 screw (4x)
Before you tighten the X-carriage-back, arrange all cables. Make sure none is pinched.
Use all four screws and tighten the X-carriage-back.
Tighten the screws with a reasonable force. Make sure you won't deform/squeeze the bearings between the printed parts.
Textile sleeve parts preparation
Textile sleeve parts preparation
Textile sleeve parts preparation
For the following steps, please prepare:
Zip tie (5x)
Textile sleeve 13 x 490 mm (1x)
The upgrade package includes a new textile sleeve in case yours from the disassembled printer is damaged.
Tightening the textile sleeve
Tightening the textile sleeve
Tightening the textile sleeve
Tightening the textile sleeve
Open one end of the textile sleeve and slide it on the cable bundle leading from the extruder. Don't forget to include the black nylon filament inserted earlier!
Leave the cables from the hotend out for now.
Length of the first wrap should be slightly longer than the cable-holder part, about 5 cm is enough.
Gently twist the sleeve to make it smaller and tighter around the cables, orient the sleeve's seam downwards, then slide the sleeve towards the extruder.
Take 3 zip ties and insert them into the lower row of holes on the cable-holder.
Twist the sleeve again (without twisting the cables inside) and tighten the zip ties.
IMPORTANT: Cut the remaining part of each zip tie using pliers as closest to its head as possible. Note the correct position of each zip ties's head (slightly off-centre to the left).