3D Printer Maintenance Schedule | How to keep your printer NEW

Every 3D Printer needs to be maintained, and with a little bit of work they will last longer and print better for years ahead. My 3D printer has thousands of hours of print time, and it still runs with some stock hardware.

Maintenance Equipment:

Oil vs Grease is the big question when it comes to lubrication, but I think they are both correct for different people for different uses.
Oil is thinner, easier to apply, and doesn't attract as much dust and dirt. Grease is thicker, messy to apply, and collects a lot of dust.
I think you have to look at where you are putting your printer, and what you want out of your lube. If you are printing in a dusty garage then oils may be better at staying clean. If you want the lube to last longer between maintenance then use a grease.

The lead screws need to be cleaned and lubricated. Pour IPA on a towel and run it up and down the rod to clean any dust or grease out. Then add your lube and run the axis up and down to distribute then remove excess. I use a grease for this. Dust is less likely to stick to vertical things.

The gear I use:

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
01:05 - Dusting
02:53 - Lubrication
04:40 - Print Bed
07:37 - Belts
08:38 - Motion Systems
14:31 - Electrical
15:44 - Hotend
17:16 - Miscellaneous

[thespencerowen]

How do you not have more subscribers yet? Your videos are super high quality.

[a.........._...__..._.....__]

Thank you for the very well made and informative video! As a new 3d printer hobbyist I had no idea how to maintain the machine and the included instructions didn't even mention how to replace the nozzle or that it even needed replacement.

[ChazBword]

My man coming hot with an amazing video. Thanks JJ. I'm at the point where I really needed this for my Mega S. Thank you very much.

[xnadave]

On my Mega S, I just use a glue stick. When it starts flaking off (attaching to the bottom of a print), I use some blue shop towels and bottled water to clean up the glue, and re-apply. So far, so good.

[ahmedamaar]

As a beginner, definitely taking some of these tips!

[TheMoOrtal]

Great video! I'm saving it for when my Prusa arrives :) Really surprised you don't have a bigger following yet.

Small note, I believe you may have forgotten to add the chapter notes to the video, the timeline isn't split on my phone.

[Fixthisbuildthat]

Digging the videos, JJ! I have a Mega S and your vids are the best resource out there, very well done. I haven't seen you mention this (though may have missed) but have you done any upgrades on your extruder? Been having issues with under extrusion and having to move my e steps all the way to 445 to compensate. Considering an upgrade and would love your input if you've done it!

[simonpelletier]

Very good video. Mega S is such a great printer!