Unlock the Mystery: How to Change the Drum on a Brother Fax Machine

Fax machines, while seemingly relics of the past, still hold their place in certain industries and personal needs. If you own a Brother fax machine, you’ll eventually need to replace the drum. This guide will walk you through the process of how to change the drum on a Brother fax machine, ensuring your machine continues to send and receive documents with clarity.

Why Change the Drum?

The drum is a crucial component in your Brother fax machine, responsible for transferring the image from the toner cartridge to the paper. Over time, the drum can wear down, leading to:

• Faded or blurry prints: The drum’s surface may become scratched or uneven, resulting in poor image quality.
• Horizontal lines or streaks: These are often signs of a damaged or worn-out drum.
• Paper jams: A worn-out drum can cause paper to stick or jam during the printing process.

Replacing the drum is a simple process that can significantly improve the performance and longevity of your fax machine.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• A new Brother fax machine drum: It’s crucial to use a drum specifically designed for your Brother model. You can find compatible drums online or at office supply stores.
• A clean, dry cloth: This will be used to wipe away any dust or debris.
• A pair of gloves (optional): Gloves can help prevent fingerprints from getting on the drum.

Power Down and Prepare

1. Turn off your Brother fax machine: Unplug the power cord to ensure complete power disconnection.
2. Open the top cover: Locate the latch or release mechanism on the top of the machine and carefully open the cover.
3. Locate the drum: The drum is typically located on the right side of the machine, near the toner cartridge. It might be covered by a protective shield or lid.

Removing the Old Drum

1. Unlock the drum: Some Brother fax machines may have a lever or button that needs to be pressed to release the drum. Refer to your machine’s user manual for specific instructions.
2. Carefully pull out the drum: Gently pull the drum out of its slot. Be careful not to touch the drum’s surface, as this can damage it.
3. Dispose of the old drum properly: Check with your local recycling center for information on how to dispose of used fax machine drums.

Installing the New Drum

1. Remove the new drum’s protective packaging: Carefully unwrap the new drum, making sure to avoid touching the drum’s surface.
2. Align the drum: Hold the new drum by its sides and carefully slide it into the slot where the old drum was located. Ensure the drum is properly aligned.
3. Lock the drum: If your Brother fax machine has a locking mechanism, ensure the drum is securely locked in place.

Finishing Touches

1. Close the top cover: Close the top cover of your fax machine.
2. Plug in the power cord: Reconnect the power cord to your fax machine.
3. Turn on the fax machine: Switch your fax machine back on.

Testing the New Drum

After installing the new drum, it’s essential to test its functionality.
1. Print a test page: Most Brother fax machines have a built-in function to print a test page. Refer to your user manual for instructions.
2. Inspect the test page: Check the test page for any signs of fading, streaks, or other printing issues.
3. Adjust settings (if necessary): If the test page shows any problems, you may need to adjust the machine’s settings. Consult your user manual for specific instructions.

Drum Longevity and Maintenance

To maximize the lifespan of your new drum, follow these tips:

• Avoid excessive use: While fax machines are designed for frequent use, excessive faxing can wear down the drum faster.
• Keep the machine clean: Regularly clean the inside of your fax machine, removing dust and debris that can affect the drum’s performance.
• Store the drum properly: If you need to store the drum for an extended period, keep it in a cool, dry place.

Beyond the Drum: Other Fax Machine Maintenance

While changing the drum is a crucial maintenance task, several other aspects of your Brother fax machine require attention.

• Toner cartridge replacement: The toner cartridge needs to be replaced periodically, depending on usage. Consult your user manual for the recommended replacement frequency.
• Cleaning the rollers: The rollers inside your fax machine can become dirty, affecting paper feed and print quality. Clean the rollers with a damp cloth.
• Checking the paper tray: Ensure the paper tray is clean and free of any debris. Replace the paper regularly, especially if it’s old or damaged.

The End of the Line (for the Old Drum): A Final Thought

Changing the drum in your Brother fax machine is a straightforward process that can significantly improve your faxing experience. By following these steps and practicing proper maintenance, you can extend the life of your fax machine and ensure it continues to function flawlessly.

Information You Need to Know

1. How often do I need to change the drum on my Brother fax machine?
The drum’s lifespan varies depending on usage, but typically lasts for around 20,000 pages. You’ll likely notice signs of a worn-out drum before it reaches this limit.
2. Can I reuse the old drum after cleaning it?
No, it’s not recommended to reuse old fax machine drums. The drum’s surface wears down over time, and cleaning it won’t restore its functionality.
3. What if I’m still having problems with my Brother fax machine after changing the drum?
If you’re still experiencing issues after replacing the drum, there could be other problems with your fax machine. Consult your user manual or contact Brother customer support for further assistance.
4. Is there a way to tell when the drum needs to be replaced?
Yes, your Brother fax machine may display a warning message or an indicator light when the drum needs to be replaced. Refer to your user manual for specific information.