Filament sensor (i3 MK3) damaged by rugged end of filament. Where can I get a spare?
Hey Prusa community 🙂
I ran into an issue with the filament sensor of my i3 MK3. The trailing end of the filament was pretty rugged and as it entered the filament sensor, it damaged a few components:
This G2NY-thing and the little box with the mirror were damaged and now I get the error message: "Filament sensor not responding..."
On the Prusa website I only find spare parts for the S and S+ models. Is there any way to get a replacement for the filament sensor of a MK3 (No S)?
Help is much appreciated!!
RE: Filament sensor (i3 MK3) damaged by rugged end of filament. Where can I get a spare?
The laser sensor was withdrawn, shortly after the Mk3 was launched.
the Mk3S and Later versions all have an infra red filament sensor. there are infra red sensors with Black PCB, and RED PCB... the RED PCB is the latest version
I suspect you will have difficulty finding a new laser sensor for the Mk3 printer.
It may be useful to let people know the area you live in, and ask if anyone has a redundant Laser Filament sensor.
in the mean time, you can turn the sensor off, using the LCD Menu, and load the printer manually. obviously the filament runout option will not work, but you will be able to use the printer. whilst you wait for someone to offer a replacement.
You could upgrade to the mk3s+ extruder housing, use an infra red sensor and the latest firmware if a laser sensor is not offered.
regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK
RE: Filament sensor (i3 MK3) damaged by rugged end of filament. Where can I get a spare?
Thank you for taking the time to help me out here 🙂
OK, I can operate the printer without the sensor for now. It is a convenient feature though, and I would like to fix it by converting to the newer IR sensor.
I guess I will be looking into the upgrade kit then 🙂
Thx!
RE: Filament sensor (i3 MK3) damaged by rugged end of filament. Where can I get a spare?
Hi Dirt-e
you would need the upgrade kit, and you would need to print the plastic parts which are linked on the upgrade page.
(Ideal opportunity to clean and lube your linear bearings too! 🙂
https://www.prusa3d.com/product/prusa-lubricant-applicator-set-5g/
regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK
RE:
Just adding some info here in case others may run into the same issue:
I found a laser sensor on AliExpress for 12€ with free shipping. It is a drop-in replacement and does not require any assembly other than pluging the cable.
It even says "Prusa", but I wouldn't be surprised if it were a clone. I cannot say anything about the quality, just saying that this thing does exist and appears to work.
I bought the MK3S+ upgrade kit though, and as soon as I find a cozy rainy afternoon, I will do the upgrade. I find it incredibly cool of Prusa to provide those kits that enable me (as a mere mortal) to upgrade my printer and thereby give it a much longer lifespan👍.
In times when companies openly use planned obsolescence to sell more stuff, that is like a breeze of fresh air coming from Prag. And rest asured, when the time does come for a new printer, that experience will definitely not be forgotten.
Thank you!!!