The issue you’re experiencing with the extruder motor on your Creator Pro printer could be caused by a few different factors. Here are some possible solutions to try:

1. Check the filament path: Make sure there are no obstructions or clogs in the filament path, such as debris or partially melted filament. Clean out the extruder and hot end to ensure smooth filament flow.
2. Inspect the extruder gear: Take a close look at the extruder gear that grips the filament. It’s possible that the gear teeth are worn down or damaged, preventing it from properly gripping the filament. If necessary, replace the gear with a new one.
3. Adjust the motor current: The jerking motion could be a result of insufficient motor current. Check the motor current settings in your printer’s firmware and increase them slightly if needed. This adjustment can usually be made through the printer’s LCD menu or in the firmware configuration files.
4. Recheck the stepper motor wiring: Ensure that the wiring connections between the stepper motor and the control board are secure and properly seated. Sometimes, a loose or faulty connection can cause erratic motor behavior.
5. Update or re-flash the firmware: While less likely, it’s possible that there may be a firmware issue causing the problem. Consider updating or re-flashing the firmware on your printer to the latest version, or even try a different firmware like Marlin to see if it resolves the issue.

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and the problem persists, it’s possible that the stepper motor itself is indeed faulty and may need to be replaced.

If you’re using Marlin firmware and want to print debug messages to the terminal, you can achieve this by using the M118 command. M118 is the equivalent of System.out.println() or Console.WriteLine() in other programming languages.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Open the Marlin firmware files in a text editor of your choice.
2. Look for the “Configuration_adv.h” file, which contains advanced configuration options.
3. In this file, find the section that defines the SERIAL_MOTOR_DEBUG option. By default, it is usually commented out with // at the beginning of the line. Remove the // to uncomment and enable serial debugging.
4. Save the changes to the “Configuration_adv.h” file.
5. Now, you can use the M118 command to send debug messages to the terminal. The syntax for M118 is as follows:

M118 P<message>

Replace <message> with the debug message you want to display. For example:

I noticed that you’re encountering a few issues with your Ender 3 Pro 3D printer. Let’s go through each problem and find some solutions:

1. Light and thin prints: If your prints are coming out lighter than expected and easily scrape off, there are a few things you can try:
   • Calibration: Make sure your printer is properly calibrated, including the bed leveling and the extruder steps per millimeter (E-steps). This ensures that the nozzle is at the correct height and the right amount of filament is being extruded.
   • Nozzle clogging: Check if your nozzle is clean and not partially clogged. Partial clogs can lead to inconsistent extrusion and lighter prints.
   • Extrusion settings: Verify that your slicer software has the correct extrusion settings. Ensure the filament diameter is set correctly and adjust the flow rate/extrusion multiplier if needed.
   • Filament quality: Poor quality or improperly stored filament can affect print quality. Try using a different spool of filament from a reputable manufacturer and store it in a dry environment.
   • Print speed and temperature: Experiment with adjusting the print speed and temperature settings. Lowering the print speed or increasing the temperature slightly may improve adhesion and layer bonding.
2. Filament getting stuck on support rods: If the filament is getting stuck on the support rods, try the following:
   • Check the filament path: Ensure the filament path is clear of obstructions or debris. Clean the filament guide tube and remove any dust or dirt that might impede filament movement.
   • Lubrication: Apply a small amount of lubricant, like sewing machine oil, to the support rods. This can reduce friction and help the filament move smoothly.
   • Filament guide modification: Consider using filament guide modifications, such as filament guide tubes or upgraded filament guides, that provide a smoother path for the filament and minimize the chances of it getting stuck.
3. Stuck prints on the bed: If you’re having trouble removing prints from the bed, here are some suggestions:
   • Wait for the bed to cool down: Allow the bed to cool completely before attempting to remove the print. This can help reduce adhesion between the print and the bed.
   • Use a spatula or scraper: Gently use a spatula or scraper tool to carefully lift the edges of the print. Apply gentle pressure to gradually separate the print from the bed. Be cautious not to damage the bed or the print.
   • Apply heat: If the print is still stubbornly stuck, you can try applying a controlled amount of heat to the bed. Use a heat gun or a hairdryer on a low setting to warm up the print bed, which can help release the print.
   • Use a release agent: Applying a release agent like a glue stick, hairspray, or specialized 3D printing bed adhesives before starting the print can make it easier to remove the prints afterward.

Remember to prioritize your safety while working with hot components or sharp tools. Also, consult your printer’s manual or online resources specific to your printer model for additional troubleshooting tips.

I hope these suggestions help you overcome the issues you’re facing. Happy printing!