How to Troubleshoot a Xerox Document Feeder

Many document feeder problems result from improperly loaded paper.

Xerox is the brand name for a manufacturer of copy equipment. Since Xerox was the first major leader in the industry, many people use the name when referencing copies of documents or as a common name for copy equipment and supplies. The document feeders of most Xerox brand equipment operate in a similar manner, regardless of the model, making it easy to troubleshoot problems.

Things You'll Need

• Can of compressed air

Instructions

1. Gently pull any jammed paper out of the feeder. This step is optional, as a paper jam is often the first sign of trouble.

2. Check the main paper stack. Paper must be lined up properly and neatly to ensure it can be captured by the feeder to enter the machine. Paper that is out of alignment may not only be missed, but also travel partway through the feeder at a bad angle, causing it to jam. Tap the edge of the stack against a flat hard surface to align the pages. Flip through the end that you will insert into the paper tray to ensure the papers are not sticking together.

3. Run a test copy from the full stack. If problems persist, remove the stack and insert one page to test. If the copy passes through the copier successfully, reduce the height of the stack of paper in the tray to about 1/2 inch or the height of the feeder rollers. Ensure that the stack fits properly along the paper guides in the tray.

4. Inspect the exit of the document feeder. Look near the opening and inside to ensure that any foreign objects are not blocking the paper's path.

5. Open the panel that accesses the document feeder rollers. Spray compressed air into the rollers and gears to clean them of dust. Ensure that all of the rollers are level and the same to each other. If a roller appears to sit at an angle, wiggle it back in place. Gently spin each roller to ensure that it rolls easily while still feeling secure but not tight in its position.

6. Power down. Computerized Xerox equipment may require that it be shut off for up to three minutes then turned back on after any type of servicing.

Tips & Warnings

• Only access the areas of the documens feeders, paper trays and ink or toner housing. To avoid electrocution and voiding a warranty, never open the back of copying equipment unless you are a trained technician.

References

• Xerox: WorkCentre® C2424 Copier-Printer - 7 Troubleshooting