Problem → Fix. One line each. Print this and keep it next to your printer.
Quick Fix Reference
Problem on the left. Fix on the right. One line each. For detailed explanations, see the full troubleshooting guide.
| Problem | Quick Fix |
|---|---|
| First Layer Issues | |
| Print not sticking | Clean bed, re-level, lower Z-offset |
| Lines not touching | Lower Z-offset in 0.05mm steps |
| Elephant's foot | Raise Z-offset, lower bed temp |
| Uneven first layer | Re-level bed, check bed flatness |
| Stringing & Oozing | |
| Strings between parts | Increase retraction, lower temp 5°C |
| Blobs on surface | Reduce flow rate 2-3%, lower temp |
| Zits/pimples | Enable wipe, tune retraction |
| Layer Issues | |
| Layer shifts | Tighten belts, check for obstructions |
| Gaps in layers | Check for clog, calibrate flow |
| Weak layer bond | Increase temp, check cooling |
| Ghosting/ringing | Tighten belts, reduce acceleration |
| Surface Quality | |
| Rough top surface | Increase top layers, reduce infill speed |
| Gaps in top surface | More top layers, higher infill |
| Scars on surface | Enable wipe, increase Z-hop |
| Poor overhangs | Increase cooling, slow outer walls |
| Warping & Adhesion | |
| Corners lifting | Clean bed, increase bed temp, use brim |
| Parts warping | Add brim, enclosure for ABS/ASA |
| Print falls off mid-print | Increase bed temp, add brim |
| Extrusion Problems | |
| Under-extrusion | Check for clog, calibrate E-steps |
| Over-extrusion | Reduce flow rate, calibrate E-steps |
| No filament coming out | Clear nozzle, check for jams |
| Clicking/grinding | Clog, or temp too low, or speed too high |
| Dimensional Issues | |
| Holes too small | Design 0.2-0.4mm larger, check horizontal expansion |
| Parts too big | Reduce flow, check horizontal expansion |
| Parts too small | Increase flow, check horizontal expansion |
| Support Problems | |
| Supports won't remove | Increase Z-gap to 0.3mm |
| Support scars on model | Increase interface layers, use tree supports |
| Supports fall off | Increase support density, decrease Z-gap |
| Material-Specific | |
| PETG stringing | Lower temp, increase retraction, dry filament |
| ABS/ASA warping | Enclosure, higher bed temp, brim |
| TPU jamming | Slow down (20-30mm/s), direct drive helps |
| Nylon weak layers | Dry filament, print hotter |
When to Replace Parts
| Part | Symptoms | Replacement Interval |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle | Under-extrusion, stringing won't fix | 3-6 months (sooner with abrasive filament) |
| PTFE tube | Jams, clogs at heatbreak | 6-12 months |
| Extruder gear | Grinding filament, skipping | 12+ months (inspect regularly) |
| Bed surface | Nothing sticks anymore | 12-24 months (clean regularly) |
| Belts | Ghosting, layer shifts | 12-24 months |
Preventive Maintenance
- Weekly: Clean bed with IPA, check belt tension
- Monthly: Lubricate rods, check extruder gear
- Every 3 months: Inspect nozzle, clean fans
- Yearly: Check PTFE tube, consider nozzle replacement
Calibration Checklist
When nothing's working, run through these:
- Bed level / mesh
- Z-offset
- E-steps (extruder calibration)
- Flow rate
- Temperature tuning
- Retraction tuning
Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first!
Leave a Comment