Lexmark MS310

Lexmark MS31x/41x/510/610 & MX310/410/51x/61x Product Study Guide Rev 1.3
Paper Transport Diagnostic Tips
Paper Rules of Thumb
Paper jams and feed problems occur for numerous reasons. Sometimes, failure of the equipment is the
cause or it can be the result of other external factors. Before replacing parts for a feed problem, ask these
questions:
• Is the customer using a supported media type? This is a common problem. Check the
printer specifications in the Service Manual or User’s Guide if you are not sure.
• Is the customer using a supported media size? Check the printer specifications in the
Service Manual or User’s Guide if you are not sure.
• Is the customer using a supported media weight? This is a common problem. Check the
printer specifications in the Service Manual or User’s Guide if you are not sure.
• Have you tried printing with a fresh ream of paper? Paper that is left out of the package for
periods of time can dry out or absorb moisture.
• Have you tried printing from a different input source? This will help narrow down the cause
of some problems.
• Is too much paper loaded in the Tray? Make sure the stack height does not exceed the
indicated maximum height.
• Is the paper in the Tray wrinkled, creased, damp, or curled? Paper will not feed properly if it
is damaged. Try a fresh ream of paper.
• Are different media types and/or weights loaded in the Tray (i.e. the customer has both
plain paper and cardstock loaded)? This will cause misfeeds.
• Is the relative humidity too high? Too low? This can affect the media and/or printer and its
ability to feed properly. Check the printer specifications in the Service Manual or Technical
Reference Guide to see if it is located in an ambient environment.
• Is the paper loaded properly in the Tray or option? This is a common problem. Reposition
the paper in the Tray or option to make sure that is loaded properly. The paper guides should be
flush against the media, but not too tight.
• Are the feed rollers worn because it is time for a maintenance kit? Check the page count of
the printer to see if it is time for a maintenance kit to be installed.
• Are there any obstructions in the paper path? If paper, staples, paper clips or other items are
in the printer, they can prevent the media from feeding properly.
Save yourself time and effort and always check these external influences before spending time
troubleshooting a supposed equipment failure.
For Training Purposes Only 95 4/21/2014