How to Fix an Electric Can Opener That Drops the Can

If your electric can opener drops the can, it means there is too much space between the cutter and the feed gear (the gear that guides the can). To fix this problem, insert washers behind the feed gear to close the gap; this process is called shimming.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dishwashing Liquid
• Washers
• Dishwashing Liquid
• Rag
• Stiff Brush
• Washers
• Pliers With Tape On Tips
• Screwdriver

1. Unplug the can opener.

2. Remove the cutter arm from the machine. It usually has a release lever or button that allows you to do this.

3. Scrub away buildup on the feed gear with dishwashing liquid, hot water and a stiff brush. Dry thoroughly.

4. Unscrew and remove the back of the can opener's case. You'll see a large gear on the same shaft as the feed gear; this is the spur gear.

5. Put masking or duct tape on the tips of a pair of pliers to protect the feed gear.

6. 

   Hold the spur gear in place with a rag (or a screwdriver if the spur gear has a hole) as you twist off the feed gear with pliers (see A).

7. 

   Buy washers the same size as the feed gear; you'll find these at a hardware store. Place one or more of these washers onto the feed gear's shaft (see B).

8. Replace the feed gear and cutter arm. There should be about 1/32-inch (1-mm) gap between the parts. Add or remove washers, if necessary, until you reach the desired spacing.

9. Reassemble the machine and plug it in. If the machine continues to drop cans, add another washer.

Tips & Warnings

• If the feed gear's teeth are worn out, buy a new gear from the manufacturer or from a parts supplier (look under "Appliances" in the yellow pages).
• Clean the cutter arm and the feed gear regularly with dishwashing liquid, hot water and a stiff brush.
• Never immerse an electric can opener in water.