Replicator+: How to change your Smart Extruder+

Changing Extruders

You can install or change extruders at any time as long as your MakerBot Replicator+ is turned on. If your MakerBot Replicator+ is printing, navigate to the Print/Options menu and select Pause. Wait for the extruder to cool to at least 50°C. Remove the extruder and replace it with the new one, then select Attach Smart Extruder. Once you have attached the new Smart Extruder+, navigate to the Print/Options menu and select Resume to resume printing.

How to Install the Extruder

Unwrap the Smart Extruder+ and press it against the back of the extruder carriage, with the connector pins facing the front of the MakerBot Replicator+. Magnets will lock the extruder into place.

Note: It might not be obvious where to attach the extruder if the gantry is positioned all the way at the back of the printer. When your MakerBot Replicator is paused or not printing, use both hands, one at each end of the gantry, and apply equal pressure to move the gantry forward. It is not safe to manually move the gantry when your 3D printer is printing.

When the extruder is in place, check the control panel screen. If the extruder icon on the home screen looks normal, your extruder is connected properly. If you see a silhouette of the extruder icon, select it to run the extruder attachment script. The carriage motor will turn to ensure that the extruder fits snugly against the extruder carriage.