Severed thermistor wire - a few questions... (newbie)
My first post! A little background: First, I LOVE this machine, especially coming from Creality. I'm still new to it though. I have a factory assembled MK3S+ and it arrived about a month ago. The fully assembled option was great, but of course, now I need to fix something and feel like I don't know quite as I would if I had built it from a kit.
Anyway, I stupidly allowed a massive PLA blob to engulf most of the hot end. The blob covered all of the wires (thermistor and heater cables). To remove, I heated to 250C (per this), and did my very best to get the blob off without damaging wires, but obviously one thermistor wire was severed and I know despite being as careful as I could, I certainly gave the heater cables a workout too.
If it is helpful, I do have the "MINTEMP" error - I understand that is the thermistor.
Questions:
- Is it correct to assume that it is best to just replace the thermistor? Is this able to be repaired on my own (see picture)?
- Because I live in the US and the replacement part is not in stock from the Prusa shop, is there another known reliable source for the same part online? [Also, is this the correct part?]
- Finally, are there any mods (other than my eyeballs) that might make huge blobs like this less pervasive or limit the damage?
- Thank you!
Best Answer by stephen.h14:
I had a break in my thermistor wire once, I was able to solder and heat shrink it back together so I could use the printer while I waited for the replacement to arrive. I ordered two so I had a spare for the next time it happens. I use a silicone sock over the hot end now, mainly to keep the hot end temp consistent when the print fan kicks on but it can help if you get another blob. Best plan is probably to monitor the print every so often to catch it early? I've only had the one bad one, when a print came loose from the bed prematurely. I started using non-crossing infill (gyroid, not grid) and I think I keep the bed cleaner and I haven't struggled with loose prints in a long time.
RE: Severed thermistor wire - a few questions... (newbie)
I had a break in my thermistor wire once, I was able to solder and heat shrink it back together so I could use the printer while I waited for the replacement to arrive. I ordered two so I had a spare for the next time it happens. I use a silicone sock over the hot end now, mainly to keep the hot end temp consistent when the print fan kicks on but it can help if you get another blob. Best plan is probably to monitor the print every so often to catch it early? I've only had the one bad one, when a print came loose from the bed prematurely. I started using non-crossing infill (gyroid, not grid) and I think I keep the bed cleaner and I haven't struggled with loose prints in a long time.
RE: Severed thermistor wire - a few questions... (newbie)
Filastruder is a reliable US-based source for many Prusa parts. PrintedSolid and MatterHackers are also good.
RE: Severed thermistor wire - a few questions... (newbie)
@stephen-h14
Thanks - I figured as much. I also ordered two replacements and a silicone sock pack. I appreciate your help!