xTool M1 Air Assist

[@jakkigressell3016]

Just finished setting up the air assist successfully! Thank you for your super helpful tutorial!!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We are thrilled to learn, our video was of help. Thank you for taking the time to watch our video and for leaving a comment.

[@ClaireNicholson-c6d]

Absolutely fantastic support in helping me install my daunting air assist last night. Thanks guys.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

It is our absolute pleasure. Thank you for watching our video and for the very kind comment!

[@GlennEdensII]

Thank you so much for making such a great how-to video. This was the first of your videos that I have seen, but I will be watching many more after this. I can't tell you how great it was to hear you get right to the point, explain only what we needed to hear, and clearly show how it's done. Refreshing, thank you again so much!!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We are so very humbled by your kind words and we could not be happier that you enjoyed what we showed. Thank you so very much.

[@jamiebelongia9415]

Thank you! This is the best video on installing the air assist… and I’ve watched several. You’ll be my go-to channel for other instructions!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We are so humbled by your kind words. We sincerely appreciate it.

[@jignapatel75]

Thank you so much for this how to tutorial. Honestly it’s the best one I have seen on how to install the air assist.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

It is comments such as your that make us the happiest and to want to continue to make more content. Thank you so very much for your kind words.

[@rayj9970]

Thank you both here from Australia for the amazing tutorial. Straight to the point and you are both lovely to watch ❤️

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We are so very humbled by your kind words and are thrilled to hear our video was able to help

[@RussDahlberg]

Just followed this step by step and it worked out great! Thank you for making this video!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We are absolutely thrilled to learn that our video was able to help someone. Thank you so very much for watching our video and for leaving your wonderful comment.

[@johnjohnson6020]

Best video I found! I was able to install first time, Thankyou very much :)

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Thank you so very much. It is comments such as yours that make this so fun to do!

[@charn876]

Thanks for making the video. It helped me assemble the air assist! Can't wait to use it!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

It is comments like yours that make us the happiest. We are thrilled to know we have been able to help. Thank you for watching our video and for taking the time to leave a comment

[@lisabutcher8405]

Thank you so very much for this video it really helped. I too put the adapter on the wrong end of the tube. The locking attachments can be released if you push the white or blue pieces (depending on the attachment) down firmly, then pull the tube out. Again thanks so much

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

What? Do you think I did all that as an accident? I planned it all that way, just to help viewers. 🤣🤣🤣 kidding aside, i attempted to release the hose as you described, it should have released easily but didn't, so i used it as is. We thank you so very much for watching our video and for your kind words and awesome tip.

[@Lutzboater]

The Air Assist made a huge difference in the ornament. It is definitely a major upgrade to your M-1. I couldn't tell for sure if Richard was was excited about getting this Air Assist or not. Gonna have to watch I again to see, I guess.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

As always, your fun comments crack us up and we appreciate it.

[@alidadebruyn36]

I’m new to laser engraving, I just purchased my first xtool M1. I tried a few items and they came out great. I ordered the raiser, the air assist the rotary and the smoke purifier. Just by adding that I’m now too nervous to use the machine 😒

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Sorry for the delayed response. We hope you overcame your concerns and have jumped in and started working with the laser. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us and we will do our best to provide you with a valid solution.

[@joleksy1]

Great video!!! Made it an absolute breeze to install. Thanks for posting.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

This is the type of comment that truly brings a smile to our face. We are thrilled to hear, our instructions helped. Thank you for watching our video and for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@marycox7620]

Thank you so much for this tutorial!! You made it look so easy and it actually was!!!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

These are the types of comments that make us so happy. We are thrilled that we were able to help. Thank you for watching our video and for your kind words.

[@WoodenItBeNice]

Hi Both, I have seen a few video about the air assist and it does make a huge difference. Once again easy to follow instructional video. Take care both. Cheers, Huw

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I believe you suggested we purchase an air assist on one of our previous videos. We wanted one but the company did not manufacturer one for the M1 Laser and we also had issues with shipments to Hawaii. It took a while but we knew it would get here eventually and we are definitely thrilled about it. :-)

[@WoodenItBeNice]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY X Tool also do a Smoke purifier for the M1 which works really well. Here is a link to a friend of mine's video on using it; kzbin.info/www/bejne/qmWZmGRrfZanY9E Hope that helps. Take care both. Cheers, Huw

[@michelarennison4756]

Hi and great video, thank you so much because it really helped me to fit my air assist. Can I ask please if the air assist nozzle can be permanently left in place or does it have to be removed when certain operations are being performed?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Yes. You can leave it attached at all times. It is just a matter of whether you turn on the air assist or not. For me... i dont use the air when engraving. Thank you for the wonderful question!

[@michelarennison4756]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY thank you both. I'm a complete newbie to this and finding your channel has been a godsend. Please keep those videos coming 🙏

[@XDIY]

Great explanation! Looks like it has a good reault.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We thank you for your kind words!

[@benjaminpastrana9662]

@4:25 video you took out the cover. after installing the nozzle that cover does not have to be put back again? I guess it doesn’t fit.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I sincerely apologize for the delayed response. My wife and I are recovering from COVID. xTools on instructions indicate the cover is not reinstalled. I have some viewers who have stated they reinstalled it and connected the Air Assist with the hose on the opposite side. This sounds like it will work but since xTool did not do so, I followed their instructions instead.

[@MiningforMac]

Great video. It was very clear and informative. Why would I want to tuck the air assist away like you showed near the end of the tutorial portion of the video when it went in that little cubbie? Is there harm in just leaving it attached to the laser at all times?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I agree with you 100%. I made the video, following installation guide. Once finished, i thought, "why would i ever remove the air assist"?

[@ambersmith3390]

You don’t have to put the metal plate back on after you put the new lens with the notches and hose on ?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

The plate will not fit if you install exactly as xTool instructs but I have heard people mount the hose facing the opposite direction, which allows the plate to be installed. I have not done so and it works fine for me. I think the air that blows, keeps the particles away and the plate is not needed. (my personal theory). :-)

[@clevesque6348]

Another great video. Mine came with two filters. Didn’t see you install them. Also, two extra clear lenses. Any idea why?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

The extra lenses are spares. I had a problem with cutting for a bit and replaced a lens and it worked perfectly. Definitely keep the spares in a safe place. Thank you so very much for your kind words and support.

[@clevesque6348]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY perfect! Looks like I got everything installed correctly and was able to engrave on a tumbler today with RA2. 😁

[@emikoworkstudio]

thank you 2 of you did good job

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Our pleasure! In turn, we sincerely thank you for taking the time to watch our video and for your kind words.

[@rosembergmartins2551]

Thank you very much for the video. It helped me a lot!!!😍🥰😍

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

This is the type of comment we really enjoy. Knowing that we were able to help someone else is a perfect way to pay it forward since others have helped us on many occasions. Thank you so very much for watching our video and for the kind comment. Have a Happy New Year.

[@rosembergmartins2551]

@Poor Man's DIY Happy new year!!! You have a new subscriber🥂 🙏❤️

[@jaynice68]

Hi, Great video!!! I did not see you put the blade back in. Are you supposed to or do you leave it out while using air assist

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

So sorry for not showing that part. The instructions show to put the blade back in, but I have a cricut and found it works better for me so I just remove the blade and it works fine. Thank you for watching our video, your kind words and for taking the time to comment and leave a question.

[@FixitFingers]

That is a great upgrade, almost should just come with the kit

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

The air assist is new but they do include it in kits now. But... you are spot on, none the less. 😀

[@denisespivack6035]

Just got my machine and air assist. Did you ever put the gold magnetic blade back?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Great question. You need the blade if you plan to cut paper and vinyl. I have a different machine for cutting vinyl so I just removed the blade attachment.

[@clevesque6348]

Great video. Thank you all. 🫶

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Thank you too!

[@esharisse78]

HI! Can you tell me the measurements you used to tape your hose? I’ve accidentally cut through my air hose on more than one occasion and I can’t remember where the tape marks go.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I am sincerely sorry. I would have to disassemble my unit in order to obtain the measurements. The help desk has been very helpful for me. I would send them a message and ask. I am sure they can provide the measurements you require.

[@thecraftyboston]

Also what is the difference in the exhaust pipe and the air assist - assuming air assist is better??

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Great question. The air assist is basically compressed air that is aimed at the laser beam when cutting. Without it, miniscule particles fly around when the laser is cutting and the beam is not clean so it does not cut as well. I do not want to talk you into spending more money but if you buy any laser at all, the air assist is a must. The exhaust pipe is for a fan to bliw out the smoke created when cutting. Laser cutting is essentially using light to burn wood and this creates smoke. An exhaust blows the smoke out of machine. If you have more questions, feel free to ask

[@AlazzaAlhooti]

Hii , thank you for your video My air assist stops after 2 small projects with Xtoll m1 and it get too hot. How I can make it stay longer ?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I am so very sorry but I do not have an answer for you. I recommend you contact the xTool support. I too have asked them for help a couple times and they were incredibly helpful! I suspect they may know how to help you with this problem. We would love to hear what happens if you do contact them.

[@dreadknot69]

Thanks for the instructions! I've seen people route the tube to the front, would you suggest doing that now you've been using it for a while? Anything you may do differently?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

personally, I have had no problems with the setup I have, so I have not tested any other setups. I would worry about making changes that the company does not condone. If something totally unrelated breaks, the company might be able to place blame on the unapproved set up being the cause. (Of course, I am just paranoid and overly cautious. LOL)

[@lisaboyce8685]

Appreciate you both so much. Great tips on the M1. I finally received my air assist. Funny thing, I cannot remove the 2 little screws. No one else could either. Now, they are totally stripped. Any suggestions?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

By fluke, I had another person ask me the exact same thing recently. I made some suggestions and was informed it worked. place a wide rubberband over the head of the screw. Force the screw driver in and turn. The rubber might grip the screw head and allow you to turn the screw and remove it. I am not sure which screws you are specifically referring to, if they are the ones for the base plate, you can try to get some WD 40 around the head of the screw (Not in the screw head). The oil may help loosen the screw and make it turn a little easier. Do not use the oil on screws near the laser head or lens. If the screw heads stick out above the surface, you can use vise grip pliers to grab the head and unscrew it. If these methods do not work, there are some other more drastic methods but we should probably avoid those for now. We would love to hear how things work out.

[@lisaboyce8685]

Once again, love ya both. So awesomely quick to reply. THANK YOU! Yep, I have not tried the elastic band yet. Had to stop certain male figures to NOT drill it out and mess up the warranty... again and again. Thank you for the quick response. Will keep you posted. Most likely will be a few days before I can get back to it. FYI - it is the 2 screws on top of the guide in step 1. Didn't get any further. Thanks much!

[@victorialynch6350]

I just ordered my M1 and have the air assist on my wish list. Thanks so much for making a video showing step-by-step installation, I'm sure now that I can handle it. I do have one question... What did you do with the ring you took off with the tweezers? Is that no longer necessary? Thank you again for making all of this seem doable!!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

That is a great question. I used the instructions provided by xTools themselves and just tried to help make it more understanding. I have not seen if they have updated their video but I do not recall the instructions indicating to add it back so i did not. I may be wrong on this so it might be wise to use my video along with xTools to obtain a more definite answer. NOTE: everything has worked perfectly for us as is. I hope this helps.

[@victorialynch6350]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY I appreciate your speedy response! Thanks again for all of the great videos! 😁

[@pixelrabbit261]

Great video, much better than the X-Tool version. Is there a situation where you wouldn't use the air assist?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I heard that the air assist should not be used when engraving. I did not think it made sense so I ignored it but the engraving does not come out as dark. When I turned the air assist off, the engraving looked much better so We recommend you not use the air assist during engraving 😀

[@humpohl1]

Many thanks for the video, which is very informative. I have a question and maybe you have a tip for me. If I mount the magnetic holder such in a way, that the both fethers ( I hope it's the right english word) are paralle to the laser arm, it is not tied and completely fixed, means there is still a quater move possible. When I then snap the air valve to it, it can and it will move clock and counterclockwise depending on the movement of the laser. Do you know this as well and do you have any countermeasur. Many thanks and please excuse my bad english. Best wishes from Germany

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Let me begin by saying, your English is fantastic. I am unable to communicate in German at all, but you can communicate in your language AND mine. Very good. As for the problem you described. I have the same issue. If I tighten the adapter for the lens, the laser arms go past horizontal. This really is not a big issue. The job of the air assist is to blow air, it does not know if it it horizontal or not. If you decide not to tighten the arms but instead, you allow the arms to be loose, that is okay, in my opinion. it might turn a little bit when you use the laser, but it cannot turn counterclockwise over and over until it falls off. I hope this helps but if you have additional questions, please feel free to reach out to me again.

[@nanisbeautycreations884]

My little black screws wont come off, ive tried using the screw driver it came with and nothing. any idea on how to remove them?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Ms Nanis, I have a few ideas that might work before considering more drastic measures. 1-lay a flat rubber band over the screw head, then force the screwdriver in and try to turn. The rubber helps with gripping. 2-use vise grips. If you are not familiar, vise grips are pliers that you can lock shut after gripping something. Gently grip the screw head, lock grip and turn counter clockwise 3-add a lubricant such as wd40 but this option is risky. If you get oil on your lense, the laser will not work. I have syringes that I can apply a miniscule dot of oil to try and loosen the screwthreads. This probably isn't the best idea. 4-drill out screws. This is extreme and I would first complain to xtool.com, but if for some reason they refuse to help, then and only then would I even think about this. You would need to use a power drill to drill out the screw but this will destroy the screw and you will need a replacement. I hope this helps but if you still need assistance, let me know and we will try to come up with a different option

[@nanisbeautycreations884]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY Thank you so much for replying. I was able to get it out using your first method. You are awesome, love watching you both. I have learned so much thanks to you two.

[@kristinnelson3318]

Hi! Love your videos and have subscribed. I have a question about the air assist: Do you use it when engraving?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

We find that it looks nicer when not using the air assist when engraving. I have come across others who have said the same. BTW, thank you for watching our video and for your kind words. We honestly appreciate it!

[@thecraftyboston]

I am looking to get the Xtool M1 with riser and air assist - can it cut FRP (reinforced fiberglass plastic) and mdf board that is about 1/4" thick??? Like your videos - hope you answer today so I can get on prime day today.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

I have not tried, but from what i have read, RFP does not cut well with diode laser. I have not cut mdf but I have seen videos of projects made with MDF. If purchased through Amazon, I believe you can return the laser if you are not happy with it. I am sorry i do not have a better answer for you.

[@thecraftyboston]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY Thanks for quick reply!!! Will keep watching your videos!

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

@thecraftyboston it is my pleasure. xTool occasionally provides discounts when you use the links provided in the remarks of my video. Feel free to compare prices from my links and prime deal prices and choose the best deal if you decide to purchase anything. Note, the links I provide are affiliate links but there is no extra charges to you.

[@deeneiceg1]

Thank you for the video- but I made a mistake when assembling the air assist hose to the air assist compressor. I can’t connect the hose to the compressor because I placed the wrong end on the edge of the tube. I used the end we first put on during your video. How do I unstick it? I twisted it, pulled on it.. etc.. it will not come off. What do you suggest I do?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

The truth is, i made the exact same mistake as you have. I found various instructions for removing the hose but i felt i was pulling too hard so i tres something different. I measured the hose from the laser to where the marker was. I then went to the opposite end of the hose and measured the same distance and added my own tape as a marker. Then i installed as instructed and it worked like a charm. If you need clarification, just let me know.

[@deeneiceg1]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY Thank you! I was able to fix that! The issue I have now is getting the lid off where I am supposed to place or put in the CO2 tanks on the fire assist.. I think I’m almost done setting this up..

[@deeneiceg1]

Can you make a video on how to take the top part off so that the CO2 can be placed inside the fire safety kit

[@taniataylor458]

Quick question: the little cover you take off at the beginning with the 2 screws…do you put it back on or not? I don’t think it fits properly when I tried but just wanted to make sure.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

That is actually a great question. I was wondering the same. According to the companies instructions, you do NOT have to put it back on, HOWEVER, I saw someone mention that they added the attachment over the lens on the opposite side, meaning the hose protruded the other ended of the laser, then he was able to screw the plate back on and he stated he hd not problems. I am considering doing this myself. I hope this helps. If you have any other questions, please let us know and we will do our best to provide a proper resolution. We wish you and your loved ones a Happy New Year.

[@taniataylor458]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY thanks for the reply! I managed to screw it back on but haven’t tried it with the machine running yet. Will update if there’s an issue. Also, thanks for the lovely response. Happy New Year to you too!

[@benjaminpastrana9662]

Do you have to let know the M1 in the software settings that you are using the air assist? in other laser machines I have seen that you have to mark ON that you are using it (Lightburn software)

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Unlike Lightburn, I am not aware of a setting to control the air assist. If you turn on the air assist, it will blow air and when you turn it off the air stops.

[@TechLeatherCraft]

So I received the air assist kit. It has 2 small lenses in a little ziploc bag and some rubber O-rings. Do those go somewhere? Or are they spare lenses for the inner laser part?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

They are spare parts for you laser. I had the exact same reaction as you when I found them. :-) Thank you for watching our video and for leaving a great question.

[@TechLeatherCraft]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY Really appreciate the M1 videos, they have been a great help. Just bought the M1 last week, and getting acquainted with it. (boy, routing the hose, so it doesn't get pinched in the back by the gantry... Took some work).

[@LittleCowCreative]

My air assist hose gets stuck all the time. All the measurements are correct. It usually gets stuck at the very end. I have to be quick when a project ends to catch it. Any suggestions?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

If the measurements are correct, I cannot imagine why it would get stuck. If you can see where it gets stuck, I would use a piece of tape to hold the hose up so it does not catch and get stuck. If this does not help you, I recommend you contact the helpdesk at xTool, they are super helpful!

[@LittleCowCreative]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY I made some adjustments and it seems to work fine now. Measurements were fine but I guess the little piece where it connects to the lens was a little loose so it would cause it to bunch up. Been error free now.

[@davidquinn4830]

Can you keep the cutter in while operating this laser,air Assist?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Yes, you can. My personal opinion is to adjust the blade so it does not protrude at all when not in use. When you clean under the air assit attachment to the laser head, it is far too easy to slice your hand. Thank you for watching our video. We sincerely appreciate it

[@JustMightDIY]

Wow that is a big difference. We’ve been #teammasking but may need to check this out! Thanks for sharing.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Take a quick look at the science behind it. Simply put, there are microscopic particles flying around while cutting. These particles lower the effect of the laser beam. I am blown away (no pun intended) with the difference of using an air assist. No more peeling masking tape. I tend to make intricate items and I cant tell you how many pieces I have snapped when trying to remove the tape. LOL! We hope you are able to find one and give the air assist a try!

[@garagemonkeysan]

Nice Video. Clear instructions! 🙂🐒👍🤙

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

So now, you can get a laser too, but... dont take it apart and make it into numerous cool gadgets. 😁

[@garagemonkeysan]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY Yas. I do need a frickin laser. Pew pew. 🙂👍🤙

[@lausan7172]

I am trying to use the air assist but it doesn´t cut .. do u know what the problem is?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

The air assist does not actually cut. It only blows air out of the way of the laser beam. If your laser is not cutting, it could be your settings. The laser head must be at an exact distance for it to properly cut. May I ask what you are trying to cut and how thick it is, as well as what your distance and cutting settings are?

[@christianhubmann4706]

Thank you

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

You are so very welcome. We also thank you for watching our video and for taking the time to leave a comment. We appreciate it very much.

[@irokandroll]

Wait. So you don't need a riser and honeycomb to use the air assist?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

That is absolutely correct. All three components are optional and can be used with our without one another.

[@pixelrabbit261]

How loud is it?

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

It looks, and sounds like the air compressor my sister used in her fish tank. I do not know the actual decibels it puts out but I do not think it is bad at all.

[@justiciaparaespana7236]

Very usefull but you forgot an o-ring that came in the kit that goes on the laser lens so you avoid the air adapter being dropped when the machine is working. I done in one hour.

[@Poor_Mans_DIY]

Thank you so very much for the information. When I created the video, I was following step by step instructions with xTools' official page and tried to simplify things for our viewers. I do not recall an o-ring in their instructions or in the accessories that came with it. I wonder if it is a new addition or if I am old and completely missed it. LOL. We sincerely thank you for watching our video and for taking the time to provide us and our viewers some very important information. We truly appreciate it.

[@justiciaparaespana7236]

@@Poor_Mans_DIY yes because I tried twice and I was going to damage the threaded part by forcing the adapter vs the laser head or leaving, as it show in the tutorial, and having troubles to put the air assistant adapter because is always dropped and it will be dangerous when the machine is working.