Creality K1 Max Troubleshooting Documents

The Creality K1 Max is a powerful 3D printer, renowned for its advanced features and reliable performance. However, like any technology, it may encounter issues from time to time.

In this article, we'll provide a comprehensive guide to Creality K1 Max troubleshooting, addressing common problems and offering practical solutions.

K1 Max AI Fast 3D Printer

 

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer: $899.00 (Save an extra $130)

The K1 Max AI Fast 3D Printer offers a high printing speed of 600mm/s, a large print volume of 300x300x300mm, and AI features such as a camera and LiDAR for automated monitoring and print optimization. With upgraded Z-axis, automatic bed leveling, error detection, and no assembly required, it's a user-friendly 3D printer for a healthier workspace.

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Creality K1 Max Troubleshooting Guide

K1 Max Filament Feed Issue/Clog Handling Procedure

1. Phenomenon Description

1. Gear idling, no filament flowing from the nozzle.

2. Gears make a clanging noise while turning, and no filament flows from the nozzle.

2. Cause Analysis

1. Filament entanglement in the spool position.

2. Filament blockage at the front shell of the extruder kit.

3. Blocking at the Teflon tube of hotend.

4. The filament is clogged in the throat tube of hotend.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

3.1 filament Entanglement Check and Handling

Check the backside of the machine for filament spool entanglement at the filament spool or PTFE tube inlet. If there's entanglement, carefully untangle the filament before attempting to print again.

If no filament entanglement is found, proceed to the next step.

3.2 Blockage/Tangling Troubleshooting

STEP 1: enter the control interface, click "OFF" to release the motor.

STEP 2: Remove the blue locking clip and gently pull out the PTFE tube from the top of the extruder, exposing the filament. Set the nozzle temperature to the recommended printing temperature and wait for termperature to stabilize.

STEP 3:Set the nozzle temperature to the recommended printing temperature and wait for termpaerature to stabilize.

STEP 4:Use some force to quickly pull out the filament by hand.

3.2.1 If the filament Can Be Pulled Out

Check the end of the filaments for any umbrella-shaped protrusion. If there is a protrusion, replace the PTFE tube.

3.2.1.1 If the filamentCan Be Inserted into the Hotend

① If filament insertion is successful, and the extrusion is working properly, turn the extruder handle to the closed position and select "Auto Feed." Check the filament extrusion and monitor the rotation status of the extruder gears. If automatic extrusion works without issues, the problem is resolved.

② If the extruder gears do not rotate during automatic extrusion, the problem might be related to the extruder motor (or a connection board issue). Inspect the extruder motor's wire connections to ensure they are secure. If necessary, consider replacing the extruder motor to further troubleshoot the problem.

③ If the extruder gears are functioning correctly, but you notice a slight clicking sound in the gear area and uneven filament extrusion at the nozzle, you should analyze two potential sources of the issue:

a. If the extruder gears are operating normally without any unusual noises, but the nozzle still experiences uneven extrusion, replace a new nozzle,proceed with K1 Max nozzle changing.

b. If the extruder gears are not functioning properly, follow the troubleshooting steps for the extruder assembly to solve the issue.

STEP1: Remove the extruder motor protective cover. Using the tools provided in the kit, carefully disassemble the 3 cylindrical head screws that secure the extruder assembly on both sides of the extrusion machine. Support the extrusion assembly from below and gently lift it upwards (be cautious not to lift it abruptly to avoid damaging the extrusion machine wiring).

STEP2: Using the included float spanner from the tool kit, disassemble the two diagonal cylindrical head screws that secure the extrusion kit assembly's front cover. Open the extrusion kit front cover and inspect whether there are any residual filament debris on the extruder motor gear. Check if the gear is damaged or deformed. If it's damaged or deformed, proceed to replace the K1 Max extrusion kit assembly.

STEP3: If there is a substantial amount of filament debris on the extrusion gear, use a soft brush to clean the debris from the gear. After cleaning, replace the extrusion kit's front cover and reassemble the extrusion assembly screws on the X-axis slide block mounting position. Tighten the three fixing screws on both the left and right sides.

STEP4: Repeat the automatic feeding operation. Observe the extrusion of the filamentat the nozzle. If the extrusion is normal and the extrusion gear operates smoothly without any unusual noises, the no-filament issue has been resolved.

Learn More About:

K1 Max Filament Guide : How to Load & Unload & Change Filament

3.2.1.2 If the filament cannot be inserted into the hot end

Quickly remove the filament, and use the included probe from the tool kit to push any remaining filament debris in the extrusion channel towards the hotend:

a. If the remaining filament debris in the extrusion channel is pushed completely out through the nozzle and out of the extruder, retract the probe quickly. This prevents the molten filament adhering to the inner wall of the throat tube and extrusion gear. Repeat this process to resolve the no-filament issue.

b. If the remaining filament debris in the extrusion channel can not be pushed through with the probe, the issue may be a hotend clog. Proceed with the clog resolution process.

c. If you cannot retract the filament, it might be a front cover clog. Refer to the front cover clog/filament jam process.

3.3 Front cover Clog/filament Jam Resolution Process (Revised based on existing tutorials)

3.3.1 How to determine if it's a filament jam:

Heat the nozzle to the extrusion temperature. Unlock the extrusion kit. Try to manually retract the filament by hand or pull it out from the extrusion gear area (pull it from the nearest extrusion end).

3.3.2 How to prevent filament jams:

1. Re-level the build platform.

2. Do not turn off the enclosure fan.

3. Use official slicer settings, avoid setting the bed temperature too high (do not exceed 50°C for PLA, 70°C for PETG), and ensure the nozzle temperature is not too low.

3.3.3 filament Jam Resolution:

STEP1: Heat up the nozzle to the filament extrusion temperature,PLA 200 ℃,ABS 240℃.

STEP2: Unlock the extruder kit, remove the PTFE tube, and cut the filament.

STEP3: Disassemble the three screws from the extrusion kit.

STEP4: Remove the extrusion assembly (avoid pulling on the stepper motor wires).

STEP5: Remove the two screws securing the extrusion kit front cover.

Important: Set the nozzle temperature to 0°C after removal.

STEP6: Separate the motor and the extrusion gear part, place the motor on the X-axis bracket temporarily.

STEP7: Separate the extrusion gear assembly from the front cover (in case the filamentis jammed in the extrusion and cannot be removed). You can use tools like a spatula or pliers.

STEP8: Handle the jammed filament inside the front cover. If the filamentis jammed inside the PTFE tube, you can use a probe or an L-shaped wrench to push the filamentout.

STEP9: Reassemble following the disassembly steps.

3.3.4 Clog Resolution:

STEP1: Heat up the nozzle to the filament extrusion temperature.

STEP2: Unlock the extruder, remove the PTFE tube, and cut the filament.

STEP3: Disassemble the three screws from the extrusion kit.

STEP4: Remove the extrusion kit, and if there's a clog that prevents filament removal, and the filament is stuck, you cannot pull it out.

STEP5: Disassemble the AI laser Lidar and the front cover of the extrusion kit.

• 5.1 Disconnect the transmission cable on the left side of the nozzle board and remove the two screws above the AI laser lidar and the screws on both sides of the nozzle cover by using a hex wrench.
• 5.2 Remove the hotend cover and disconnect the model fan cable.

STEP6: Disassemble the hotend.

• 6.1 Turn off the printer's power or set the nozzle temperature to 0°C before proceeding.
• 6.2 Cool the hot end temperature to room temperature, remove the insulating sleeve that covers the hot end, and use a hex wrench to remove the top screw that secures the throat tube and the two cylindrical head screws that secure the hotend from the center of the heat sink.
• 6.3 Remove the connector for the heating element and the thermistor on the back of the nozzle board, and remove the hot end.

  

  

  

STEP7: Handle the clogged filament.

STEP8: Reassemble.

K1 Max XY-axis Collision Trouble Shooting

1. Phenomenon Description

When the self-inspection is initiated, the XY-axis homing is incorrect after the platform rises and the extruder collides with the frame when the self-inspection program proceeds to the leveling step.

2. Cause Analysis

1. The XY-axis homing is incorrect after the platform ascends when self-inspection is initiated, resulting in the extruder crashing into the frame during the leveling step.

2. The XY-axis driver IC on the mainboard is damaged and does not report error code 2505, causing one of the XY-axis motors to not turn or turn less.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Check the wiring of the XY-axis motor. If the terminal is loose, plug it back in and click homing to observe if the printer XY-axis homing is normal. Check if the wiring at the X motor and Y motor is intact and if the terminals are loose.

2. If the motor wiring is intact, the main board and drive may be damaged, please follow the 2505 error code handling process.

K1 Max Print Not Sticking to the Platform

1. Failure Phenomenon

Print filament does not adhere to the platform.

2. Cause of failure

1. Platform contaminated with sweat.

2. Leveling issues.

3. Insufficient temperature of the print filament base plate.

4. Residual print filament affecting nozzle during homing.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

Check if the platform board has noticeable sweat or fingerprints. If so, clean the platform with water/alcohol and apply solid glue to improve adhesion before printing. For leveling issues, please see K1 Max Leveling Issue Handling.

3.1 Clean Platform Board

1. Check the platform for visible sweat or fingerprints.

2. If present, clean the platform with water/alcohol.

3. Apply solid glue evenly to improve adhesion before printing.

4. For leveling issues, refer to "K1 Max Leveling Issue Handling."

3.2 Adjust Glue Application

1. Clean the platform if it's dirty due to sweat.

2. Use dishwashing detergent and water or wipe with alcohol.

3. Ensure correct application of solid glue. Use the provided machine default glue or the recommended Deli yellow solid glue. Avoid using green Deli solid glue.

4. Apply a thin layer of solid glue on the board.

5. For optimal results, confirm the need for the printing calibration checkbox. It includes auto-leveling, flow calibration, and first-layer detection features.

3.3 Confirm Whether to Select Print Calibration

Print calibration includes automatic leveling, flow calibration, and first-layer detection functions (flow calibration/first-layer detection functions are off by default). If not selected, automatic leveling, flow calibration, and first-layer detection will not be performed.

3.3.1 When Print Calibration Must be Selected

Print calibration must be selected in the following situations:

1. When using different filaments than the last print, such as switching from PLA to ABS (due to variations in bed temperature and leveling data).

2. When the machine has been moved.

3. After a firmware upgrade.

3.3.2 When Print Calibration is Not Required

Print calibration is not necessary in the following situations:

1. For repetitive printing with a successful previous print.

2. When printing small models, especially at the center of the heated bed.

3.3.3 Use Correct Bed Temperature During Slicing

3.3.4 Other Temporary Method: Adjusting G-code Offset

To adjust the G-code offset as a temporary solution:

1. Open the slicing software.

2. Access slicing configurations, open advanced options, and click on the experimental tab.

3. Adjust the G-code Z-offset according to your specific situation, typically ranging from -0.05 to -0.1.

K1 Max Printing Ringing Trouble Shooting

1. Phenomenon Description

The vibration in the printed model is noticeable.

2. Cause Analysis

1. Tensioning issue.

2. Insufficient XY-axis lubrication.

3. External interference during vibration optimization.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Check the left and right belt tensioning mechanism for release of tensioning screws.

2. Check if the XY-axis lubrication is exhausted.

3. Rerun Input Shaping in a sturdy and vibration-free environment.

K1 Max Print Misalignment Issue Handling

1. Phenomenon Description

Occasional misalignment in a layer of the printed model.

2. Cause Analysis

1. External interference during printing.

2. The nozzle scrapes the model during movement.

3. The nozzle passes over the lifted edge of the model during printing.

4. Vibration optimization issue.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Do not interfere with the print head or touch the model during printing.

2. Modify the Z-axis lifting height to 0.4.

K1 Max Print Layer Texture Issue Handling

1. Phenomenon Description

Obvious print layer texture.

2. Cause Analysis

1. Z-axis lead screw assembly is not in place, causing vertical movement.

2. XY belt tension issue.

3. Hot bed support board is loose.

4. Hot bed board is loose.

5. Print parameter issue, too large flow ratio.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

Please refer to the YouTube link for solutions.

K1 Max Print filament Shortage Issue Handling

1. Phenomenon Description

Uneven print filament output.

2. Cause Analysis

1. Print nozzle temperature is too low.

2. filament feeding is not smooth.

3. Residual fluff-like filament in the filament detection module.

4. Extrusion component is defective.

5. PA value/K value mismatch.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Check if the feeding tube is bent.

2. Check if the extrusion temperature of the filament is too low.

3. There is fluff-like filament in the filament detection.

4. Extruder kit is defective.

5. Print corner material shortage.

K1 Max Print Cylinder Not Round Issue Handling

1. Phenomenon Description

Measurement data of the printed cylinder at 45° is too large or too small.

The diagonals of the printed cube are not the same length.

2. Cause Analysis

1. Inconsistent XY belt tension.

2. XY upper frame deformation.

3. Incorrect vibration compensation.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

Refer to K1 Max Print Ringing Issue Handling.

K1 Max camera does not detected

1. Phenomenon description

Phenomenon ①: Click on System Settings - AI Function - Open AI Detection, the screen displays "No camera detected".

Phenomenon ②: Upon checking through the PC Local Area Network from Crelaity Print, the camera feed displays "IP has denied our connection request".

2. Cause analysis

1. The camera module is abnormal.

2. The camera cable or the interface may be loose.

3. The mainboard is abnormal.

3. Troubleshooting and solution

1. Replace camera module.

2. Replug-in the camera cable or replace it if the problem wasn't resolved.

3. Replace the mainboard.

K1 Max AI Lidar Not Detected

1. Phenomenon Description

Click System Settings-AI Function-Open the first layer detection/flow calibration, the screen displays: LiDAR not detected.

2. Cause Analysis

1. The AI Lidar is abnormal.

2. The AI Lidar connection cable is loose.

3. The drag chain cable between the mainboard and the AI Lidar is abnormal.

4. The mainboard is abnormal.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Refer to K1 Max Print Ringing Issue Handling.

2. Replace AI LiDAR.

3. Replace the drag chain cable.

4. Replace the mainboard.

K1 Max Z-axis Cannot Be Raised

1. Phenomenon Description

During startup self-check, the platform cannot rise, or it continuously descends.

2. Cause Analysis

1. The three screws securing the platform were not removed when unboxing.

2. There are interfering objects above the printing platform, preventing it from rising.

3. The platform has a severe tilt.

4. Leveling sensor (strain gauge) is abnormal.

5. The screw securing the sensor under the platform is too tight.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Remove the three screws before turning on the device.

2. Check and remove any interfering objects on top of the platform.

3. Reinstall the printing platform.

4. Replace the strain gauge.

5. Adjust the screw under the printing platform, loosen it appropriately.

K1 Max leveling Trouble Shooting

1. Phenomenon description

When printing the first layer, there is a local scraping platform or the local first layer is too high, The first layer of the printed model behaves differently in various places

2. Cause analysis

1. No leveling after updating firmware.

2. Environmental disturbances during leveling process.

3. Abnormal pulling of hot bed wiring during leveling process.

4. There's a residual filament in the nozzle during leveling.

5. The strain gauge is damaged.

6. The printing platform board is severely damaged

7. Abnormalities in the Z-axis assembly, such as lead screw movement/loose screws, etc

8. The platform board is severely deformed during assembly, with an error of more than 5mm

3. Troubleshooting and solution

Before proceeding with the following steps, first clear the build plate and clean the nozzle.

1. Redo leveling

① Turn on printer,click 'Settings".click system "Self-check"

② Check Auto Leveling, click Start Detecting.

Tips: During the leveling process, environmental disturbances should be avoided. The 3D printer should be placed in a stable environment, and external vibration interference should be avoided during the leveling process.

2. Check Leveling Data

① The machine is connected to the network, enter the machine's IP address into the browser to access the web control interface, and check whether the leveling data is normal.

• If the data trend is normal, but the absolute sum of the leveling differences is greater than 5mm, it is necessary to retighten the Z-axis.
• If the data trend is abnormal,maybe the strain gauge is damaged, the strain gauge needs to be replaced.

  

The gap between the highest and the lowest is within the normal range if it is less than 3mm.

② Dismantle the machine base, inspect if the Z-axis assembly is functioning properly.

K1 Max Screen Display Issue Handling

1. Phenomenon Description

2. Cause Analysis

1. Screen FPC cable connection failure.

2. FPC cable damage.

3. Screen malfunction.

4. Main board malfunction.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. After shutting down, unplug and reconnect the screen, then check if it returns to normal after turning on.

2. Check if it returns to normal after replacing the cable.

3. Check if it returns to normal after replacing the screen.

4. Check if it returns to normal after replacing the main board.

K1 Max Cannot Connect to Creality Cloud

1. Phenomenon Description

Unable to connect to Creality Cloud, Creality Cloud shows offline after scanning the QR code.

2. Cause Analysis

1. The server and the current location of the machine do not match.

2. The server has not switched to the currently displayed server.

3. The App version is too low.

4. Router setting issue.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. For non-mainland China, choose a non-Chinese language for firmware versions below 1.3.1.x to recover.

2. For non-mainland China, choose the international server for firmware versions over 1.3.1.x.

3. Use at least the V5.3.3 version of the App.

4. Ensure the machine has wide area network.

5. Haiqiang to be updated.

K1 Max Creality Cloud Shows Offline After Upgrade

1. Phenomenon Description

After firmware upgrade, printer is unable to connect to Creality Cloud; Creality Cloud shows offline after scanning the QR code.

2. Cause Analysis

Firmware versions over 1.3.1.0 have introduced a privacy agreement that requires users to agree before accessing the network.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

Ensure that the printer is connected to the internet. Click "Settings" and select "Bind to Creality Cloud."

A privacy agreement will pop up. Agree to it, and then select the server. Open Creality Cloud and rescan the code for binding.

App Cannot Initiate Printing

1. Phenomenon Description

After slicing is completed on PC and uploaded to Creality Cloud, the app cannot start printing.

2. Cause Analysis

The CrealityPrint version is too low, it is recommended to use version 4.3.6 or above.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Use CrealityPrint version 4.3.6 or above.

2. Use CrealityCloud App version 5.3.3 or above.

Creality Cloud App Camera Disconnection

1. Phenomenon Description

Creality Cloud app cannot open the camera, it can only be opened occasionally.

2. Cause Analysis

Network issue.

Firmware issue.

Camera issue.

Main board or USB adapter board issue.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Check if the camera has an image in the slicing software. If not, it may be a camera wiring issue or camera damage.

2. Upgrade the machine firmware to version 1.3.2.20 or above.

3. If it is the latest version, it may be a user network speed issue. The machine has a network cable interface at the back, which can be connected to solve the problem.

K1 Max USB Firmware Upgrade Failure

1. Phenomenon Description

1. For firmware versions below 1.3.1.19, when copying to a USB drive using a Mac computer, the firmware does not display size information. Upon inserting into the machine for an upgrade, it fails.

2. The USB drive displays firmware size on the computer, but clicking on the upgrade results in an installation failure.

2. Cause Analysis

1. Copying files to a USB drive from a Mac computer generates same-named hidden files, leading to installation failure.

2. Incomplete firmware package on the USB drive, likely caused by errors during the copying process.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Locate and delete same-named hidden files on the USB drive; then, reinsert for an upgrade.Alternatively, use a Windows system to copy the firmware to the USB drive.

2. When copying files to the USB drive on a computer, preferably use the USB port directly on the computer instead of a USB HUB extension port (especially if other USB peripherals are connected and not powered externally).Before unplugging the USB drive from the computer, safely eject the USB device.

OTA Firmware Upgrade Failure

1. Phenomenon Description

Clicking on the firmware version prompts "Already the latest version."

2. Cause Analysis

The machine is not connected to the network, or Creality Cloud has not released the latest firmware version.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. In the network settings interface, ensure the machine is successfully connected to Wi-Fi. After successful connection, the IP address will be displayed below the connected Wi-Fi name (Note: K1 series can only connect to 2.4G frequency Wi-Fi).

2. Open the Creality Cloud official firmware release URL "https://www.crealitycloud.cn/software-firmware/firmware?type=10" in a browser to confirm if the latest firmware is released (Note: The machine won't recognize the latest firmware if Creality Cloud hasn't released it).

K1 MAX Unable to Read USB Drive

1. Phenomenon description

No prompt or display of Gcode files when plugging/unplugging USB drive.

2. Cause analysis

1. USB drive damage.

2. USB drive adapter board malfunction.

3. Faulty USB drive adapter cable.

4. Mainboard malfunction.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Replace the USB drive and attempt to print again.

2. Change the USB drive adapter.

3. Replace the USB drive adapter cable.

4. Consider replacing the mainboard.

K1 Max Memory Full Brick Processing Procedure

1. Phenomenon description

When uploading a G-code file or copying G-code to the printer, the printer screen appears abnormal. The machine fails to operate normally, as shown in the figure below, and the problem persists even after restarting.

2. Root cause

Too many Gcode files, time-lapse files, etc., leading to a lack of memory on the machine.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

To recover the device, please refer to： GitHub.

3.1 How to avoid the problem

1. Please check the remaining memory of the machine as soon as possible and try to make sure that the remaining memory is more than 1G.

• STEP1：Click-setting-about the device

  

• STEP2：Checking Memory Remaining

  

2. Removing redundant Gcode files

If the remaining storage space is less than 1GB, please delete redundant G-code and time-lapse files.

3.2 Operation via machine screen

• Method 1: Delete the G-code file, Click on the file - long press on the print file - check the file that needs to be deleted, and click Delete.

  

• Method 2: Restore Factory Settings, Click - Settings - Restore Factory - Check all the options - Click Restore.

  

  

3.3 Operation via LAN

• STEP1: Ensure the machine is connected to the CrealityPrint. Click on the device page - find the file.

  

• STEP2: Click the left mouse button to delete. You can delete G-code files/History/Timelapse videos.

  

K1 Z-axis Noise Resolution Process

1. Phenomenon description

Unusual noise during Z-axis lift while printing.

2. Cause analysis

1. Deformation of the lead screw.

2. Interference on the print lead screw causing noise during ascent.

3. Severe platform tilting.

4. Loose or improperly installed lead screw limit sleeve.

5. Loose screws securing the Z-axis motor.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

1. Inspect the three Z-axis lead screws for any signs of bending or deformation.

2. Clean any foreign objects on the lead screw and apply lubricating oil.

3. Check the levelness of the heated bed to identify any tilting issues.

4. Manually move the lead screw up and down to check for any looseness.

5. Disassemble the machine's bottom plate and reassemble, ensuring tight fastening of screws securing the Z-axis motor.

K1 Max Difficulty in Filament Feeding

1. Phenomenon Description

1. Consumables get stuck at the filament break detection point and cannot pass through.

2. Stuck at the extruder feeding port, where the filament cannot descend between the extrusion gears.

2. Cause Analysis

1. PTFE tube not properly assembled.

2. Extruder lever not engaged.

3. Troubleshooting and Solution

3.1.1 Trim the filament into a diagonal shape and insert it into the PTFE tube.

3.1.2 If the filament cannot pass through the break detection, remove the blue clip, insert the PTFE tube into the filament, ensuring it is properly inserted.

3.1.3 Observe carefully; when the filament passes the break detection, the blue light will become slightly brighter.

3.2.1 Unlock the extruder lever, press down the pneumatic joint plate, and remove the PTFE tube.

3.2.2 Insert the filament into the extrusion gear as far as possible, then insert the PTFE tube into the pneumatic joint, and lock the lever.

3.2.3 Click the feed button, wait for the nozzle to heat to the specified temperature, and check if the nozzle is feeding properly.

For specific videos and additional support, refer to provided links. If issues persist, contact after-sales service at cs@creality.com.

Conclusion

By following these solutions, you can optimize your 3D printing experience and keep their K1 Max performing at its best.

Regular maintenance and adherence to troubleshooting steps ensure a smooth and efficient 3D printing process.

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