The Mekanism Crusher is a crucial machine in the Mekanism mod for Minecraft, used to process ores, ingots, and various materials into more useful or refined components. However, players sometimes encounter an issue where the Mekanism Crusher is not outputting items as expected. This can be frustrating, especially when you have a full automation setup relying on it. If your Mekanism Crusher isn’t outputting items correctly, there are several common causes that could be responsible. Understanding how the machine works and how to troubleshoot it can save you time and effort.
Basic Functionality of the Mekanism Crusher
What the Crusher Does
The Mekanism Crusher is designed to grind down materials. It can crush ores into dusts, ingots into dusts, and certain blocks like cobblestone into gravel. It is one of the early machines in Mekanism’s processing chain, typically powered by energy and managed via input/output slots.
Power Requirements
Like most Mekanism machines, the Crusher requires energy (Forge Energy, Redstone Flux, or similar). Without adequate power, the Crusher won’t perform any operations. It’s important to ensure the machine is connected to a power source and that the energy buffer isn’t empty.
Common Reasons Why the Mekanism Crusher Is Not Outputting
1. Output Side Configuration
One of the most common issues with the Mekanism Crusher not outputting items is incorrect side configuration. Mekanism machines have a side configuration system that determines which sides are used for input, output, energy, and more. If the output side isn’t set properly, items won’t leave the machine.
- Open the machine GUI
- Click the square icon with colored bars to access the side configuration
- Ensure the correct side is set to output (usually colored red)
- Check that the output side is facing the desired inventory or pipe
2. Missing Inventory or Pipe on Output
If the Mekanism Crusher is trying to output to a side where nothing is connected, it may not eject items. Make sure there is a chest, pipe, or another machine connected to the designated output side. If you’re using logistics or item pipes, verify the direction and connection mode.
3. Auto-Eject Disabled
Auto-eject is a feature in Mekanism that allows a machine to automatically send items to the connected inventory. If this setting is turned off, the Crusher will keep processed items in its internal output slot and won’t push them externally.
To check this:
- Open the Crusher’s GUI
- Click the gear icon (config tab)
- Ensure ‘Auto-Eject’ is set to ON
4. Output Slot Full or Blocked
If the Crusher’s internal output slot is full, no more items can be processed. This can happen when the connected inventory is full or doesn’t accept the item being produced. Always check whether the receiving container has room for the output items.
5. Using Incorrect Items or Recipes
Another reason your Mekanism Crusher might not be outputting is if the input item is not valid or recognized by the machine’s recipe list. For example, trying to crush an unsupported block or item won’t trigger any processing or output.
- Check the Mekanism Crusher’s supported recipe list
- Make sure the input material is correctly inserted in the input slot
- Consult JEI (Just Enough Items) or other in-game tools to verify the recipe
Advanced Troubleshooting Techniques
Use of Wrench Tools
If you’re unsure about the direction your Crusher is facing, using a wrench tool from Mekanism or another tech mod can help. Rotate the machine to ensure the output side is correctly aligned with the connected container.
Redstone Signal Issues
Mekanism machines can be set to respond to redstone signals. If the machine is set to operate only with redstone input and no signal is given, it may seem like it’s not working. Check the redstone control mode in the GUI and make sure it’s set to ‘Always On’ or properly wired with redstone.
Input/Output Upgrades
If you’ve installed upgrades like Speed or Energy Upgrades, be aware that faster processing means a faster rate of output. If your logistics system cannot handle the increased item output rate, the internal buffer can clog quickly. In that case, upgrade your item transport system accordingly.
Best Practices for Crusher Output Management
Integrating with Item Transport Systems
To make the most of your Mekanism Crusher, connect it to a proper item transport system:
- Use Mekanism’s Logistical Transporters for seamless integration
- Use filters to control what items move in or out
- Power the pipes with a Configurator tool and set them to Pull from the Crusher’s output
Automating with Redstone Logic
Use redstone comparators to monitor the Crusher’s inventory. When the output slot is full, the comparator can trigger a redstone signal to halt input, preventing overflow and lag. This setup is especially useful in large, fully-automated factories.
Using Factories Instead of Basic Machines
If you often run into output issues, consider upgrading to the Crusher Factory (Basic, Advanced, or Elite). Factories can process multiple items at once and offer multiple input/output slots, making logistics easier and more scalable. They also provide more configuration options for better control.
Summary and Conclusion
If your Mekanism Crusher is not outputting, it is most likely due to one of several easily fixable issues: improper side configuration, missing connected inventory, full output slots, disabled auto-eject, or invalid input. Carefully check each of these factors through the machine’s GUI and external setup. Mekanism offers a lot of flexibility, but that also means mistakes in setup can cause processing interruptions. Once you understand how the Crusher’s output system works, you can build more reliable and efficient automation chains in your Minecraft world. Whether you’re using it in a large modpack or a small factory, keeping an eye on configuration and logistics will ensure your Crusher always runs smoothly.