MakerBot/prints blob

Target Audience

Someone using makerbot and a blog grew on the print head.

Starting Point

• If the PLA blob has not yet been removed .. follow these instructions.
• Otherwise, am starting from having ripped off the kapton tape and insulation.
• Have makercare service plan.
• Have created a service Request #99335, and received ceramic tape in the mail.

Replication Goal

Repair the printhead so it looks new again.

• 
  was printing and a PLA blob formed, when removed blob, the kapton thermal tape and insulation was removed
• 
  exposed print head angle shot
• 
  exposed print head close up

Tutorial

These are videos describing taking apart the makerbot replicator 2 print head

the starting point

duct fan attachment

ceramic tape where does it go?

removed stepper motor, looking at original ceramic tape

duct fan mount removed

finding screws to remove block, nozzle assembly

heating elements, temperature sensor, tying to figure out where ceramic tape goes

failure to remove the bolts holding 2 blocks together

lost trying to figure out how to attach new ceramic tape

Makerbot responded to these videos with this:

The second hole near the edge is actually supposed to be sliced 
open at the end. That should slip over the Thermal Barrier Tube, 
and the other hole goes around the nozzle. You can then remove 
that square of tape and secure it on top.

These are videos of the repair job that succeeded!

planning how to proceed

figuring out where the holes go

planning how to loop sticking end on top of start

inspecting the results

adding more ceramic tape from original makerbot

putting everything back together