The Method Series Extruder and LABS Experimental Extruder are designed so the PTFE tube and nozzle are easily swappable. In most cases, this allows you to replace a nozzle that is damaged from wear and tear without needing to replace the entire extruder. There are a few simple steps to replacing them, detailed instructions are provided in this article. At the bottom of the page, you will also find a video guide.
Instructions
Tip: It is much easier to remove the nozzle when the extruder is still hot, this prevents any excess plastic from acting as a glue between the extruder core and the nozzle.
Caution: Take care when handling the hot extruder. The plastic is safe to touch, but the aluminum core and nozzle can cause burns. Using a pair of cloth work gloves is recommended.
Note: If your extruder does not have the set screw shown in Step 2, please see video at bottom of page (3:16) for next steps
| Step 1. Preparation Ensure you have the right parts and equipment. You will need the extruder, replacement nozzle, PTFE tube, removal tool, and protective gloves. |
Step 2. Loosen the set screw Loosen the set screw that holds the nozzle in place. It only needs to be turned about 5 full rotations to release it. The screw should not be completely backed out of the hole. |
| Step 3. Loosen and remove the nozzle Slide the nozzle removal tool into the grooves below the nozzle. After it is slid in, use the tool to pry the nozzle free. The nozzle can then be pulled out of the extruder. |
Step 4. Remove the PTFE tube After the nozzle has been removed, allow the extruder to cool to the touch. You can use the thin end of the removal tool to get access to the PTFE tube; pull this out the back of the extruder. |
| Step 5. Insert the PTFE tube Insert the new PTFE tube into the new nozzle tube with the 4 unbent tabs sticking out. Slide the tube into the bottom of the Extruder making sure all four tabs are inserted into the hole as shown. |
Step 6. Insert the nozzle Push the nozzle tube into the extruder from the bottom. When the PTFE tube is fully visible, bend the 4 tabs over the edges of the metal tube and push the nozzle further into the extruder. Ensure that all 4 tabs are bent out and visible as shown before fully seating the nozzle. |
| Step 7. Seat the nozzle A flat surface can be used to press down on to make sure the nozzle is seated. Do not use steel, stone, Formica, or any other hard surface to press the nozzle in or you may damage it. Wood or plastic is perfect. |
Step 8. Tighten the set screw Hand-tighten the screw to ensure the nozzle is locked in place. The set screw is an M3; it does not take a lot of torque to tighten it sufficiently. Be careful, because excessive torque can easily strip the aluminum threads. |
Finished!
The nozzle is now replaced successfully. To finish the process, the extruder must be calibrated. Initiate the calibration routine via the Method series touch screen. Learn more about this process here: Calibrating the Extruders
Video guide