1. Preparing to Print! Some Basic Things to Check Before Printing
For these topics, the printer should be cool unless otherwise noted.
Leveling the platform
Loading/changing materials
Preparing the machine

2. Leveling the Platform
Uneven platforms will hinder models sticking to the platform and warping parts
Each printer has its own method of leveling
Some will self-level the platform. If it doesn’t work, re-leveling the platform will remedy the problem.

3. Leveling the Platform Level often and thoroughly (some
are automatic now)
Make sure the printer is at operating
temperature
Use paper to measure correct level
between nozzle and build platform
This requires getting a “feel” for
your printer!

4. Cleaning the Platform
Dirty or uncoated platforms will hinder the model from sticking
ABS plastic seems to stick to either kapton tape or a clear glass surface best. With the platform cold, wipe down the surface with acetone
PLA plastic seems to stick to blue painter’s-tape or a frosted glass surface best. 220-grit sandpaper works well for removing the waxy surface on the outside of the painter’s tape.

5. Replacing the Platform Surface
Replace as soon as you see tears, chips or wearing
Use the surface coating that matches your material
For painters tape, clean with with isopropanol alchohol. Begin at back of bed and work forward
For Kapton tape, clean surface with windex, apply evenly and use a squeegee to remove air bubbles

6. Changing / Replacing Filament
You may run out, you may want a different color, etc.
Turn on and warm up your machine
Most have a menu selection to unload wire
Remove wire and replace with new spool
Make sure to trim the new edge!
Insert the new wire until it is
extruding cleanly

7. Cleaning the Extruder
Dirty extruders cause the filament not to flow or to flow inconsistently
If there is black sooty deposits on the extruder tip, clean them off using Acetone, particularly if printing with ABS
If there are bits of plastic stuck on or near the tip they may be dislodged while wiping the extruder with acetone.

8. Cleaning the Extruder Most serious clogs require advanced cleaning
Remove and soak the nozzle when
possible (Acetone for ABS plastic)
Poke clean with thin metal
Some printers do not have
removable nozzles. Heat these up
and try to unclog while attached.
Caution, parts can be hot!

9. Heating the Platform and Chamber
For ABS Plastic it is important to run the print in a
consistently warm environment.
Let the printer sit for a few minutes (5-20) to let the
interior environment of the printer to heat up.
For PLA Plastic the surface needs to be cooled. Before printing,
all that is needed is to do is pre-heat the extruder.
If loading PLA filament, put a drop of a light oil, such as canola,
to reduce the chances of the extruder becoming clogged

10. Filament Storage Humidity and moisture can have
dramatic effects on filaments
Moisture filled filament can ruin
builds or cause clogged nozzles
Seal in air and water tight package
when not using
Store with desiccant

11. Routine Maintenance Keep Ahead of Problems! Leveling the Platform
Replacing Platform Surfaces
Clearing a Clogged Extruder
Filament Storage