Is this an extruder issue?

Hi everyone.

I have a K1C Max that continues to produce bad layers. This machine has been used in a manufacturing environment and run hard. I replaced the 0.4mm nozzle, and the picture below shows the result of the first three layers. Recently printed parts were very brittle due to poor layer adhesion. I also have a regular K1C that does not suffer this problem with the exact same settings. I assume this is an extruder issue. Any advice would be helpful.

It’s impossible to diagnose from a single top down picture, it would be pure guesswork. What’s also needed is a an oblique angle photo in a addition to stand off photo, a size reference in the photos such as a coin or ruler for scale and most of all, a screenshot of what the model looked like in the slicer so that it can be understood what the design intent was.

Also, what filament were you using? What troubleshooting steps did you take other than print the same model on each printer? Did you use the same spool? Did you swap spools between the printers. If not, it could be filament moisture issue too.

Did you verify that the build surface was properly cleaned using soap and water? Or did you verify that the filament was being laid down flat by employing a first layer test. A first layer test would also reveal build plate contamination. If you’re unfamiliar with how, just ask and I’ll post a quick tutorial.

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Judging by how far apart each layer is, I would say its either a clogged nozzle or it could be the extruder. New extruders dont cost much, replace it with a new one and go from there.

After replacing the extruder, the quality has been much improved, but not perfect.