Layers not joining up - new build so nearly there!

Hi all, I've recently built a printing based on the prusa i3, it's going well but there's still some issues, I can't get the setting quite right! Details are as follows:

Printer: prusa i3
Software: repetitive
Slicer: sl3cer
Material: PLA

My primary issue is getting the layers to blend together. Each layer just doesn't seem wide enough to blend in with the next layer. Please see images' I'm new to printing and do kit understand the various settings, any advice would be hugely appreciated. I'm wanting to learn! Let me know your thoughts!

Did you print some test objects first to confirm / adjust the printer calaibration like steps for the extrusion?
Did you select the extrusion width manually, if so to what values?
What is the nozzle diameter?
And so on..., details, details, details....

Sorry! details below, yes I printed a test cube, same issues.

so details:

I haven't changed the extrusion steps ( don't know what I'd change help there would be appreciated)
I've done all sorts with the extrusion width, as I raise the width the gap between the rows of material on the first layer widen all very frustrating.
0.4 nozzle diameter, although its set to 0.5 as I was advised to do so.
filament 1.75 PLA.

Also another thing that happens sometimes in the extruder sort of 'skips' where the brass feeder gear slips on the filament, I expect this is a setting but just don't know what!?

I've attached the settings config file to this post for you to see, will this allow you to view all the settings, config.ini

thanks for your help!!

Test cube:





Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 12/21/2015 11:07AM by dantyas.

If you have a 0.4mm nozzle than you set this in your slicer as well!
Using 0.5 for that means the spacing, extrusion and all will be totally wrong.
If the extruder can't hold the filament it is either not enough tension on the idler or a bad extruder / hotend.
Calibration guide

I'm thinking that my problem is with the extruder, thank you for the guide, I'll tackle it tonight

If you just think without knowing for sure, tick the suggestion from other people first.
After all, they might be printing for a while and know a thing or two to help

I'll be sure to do that, this communities a life saver, thanks