So each day in 3D printing brings new challenges and learning and figured I would pass on a solution in case this happens to you. This one was on my Taz6 but I imagine it could happen on any FDM printer, and I found a creative solution. So my extruder really clogged with HTPLA, and refused to unclog with the usual techniques, etc and ultimately I decided to remove the nozzle and unclog it.
The nozzle snapped off at the threads as it was so encrusted with plastic. Support at Lulzbot told me I needed a whole new hot end? really? Tried a whole bunch of things to get it out, then it hit me, and brought in my bolt extractor kit, and voila (a tad scary to unscrew a “nut” at 165C but it nicely backed it out easily and smoothly). Now back to printing…
Has this ever happened to anyone?