What To Know
- A paper jam can be frustrating, but with this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to fix a jam in your rear Brother printer quickly and efficiently.
- A rear paper jam occurs when a sheet of paper gets stuck in the back of your Brother printer, typically in the area where the paper exits after printing.
- Use a soft, dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the paper path.
Printing is a crucial part of our daily lives, whether it’s for work, school, or personal projects. But what happens when your trusty Brother printer suddenly decides to play a trick on you and gets jammed? A paper jam can be frustrating, but with this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to fix a jam in your rear Brother printer quickly and efficiently.
Understanding the Rear Paper Jam
A rear paper jam occurs when a sheet of paper gets stuck in the back of your Brother printer, typically in the area where the paper exits after printing. This can happen for various reasons, such as:
- Paper type: Using paper that’s too thick or thin, or even wrinkled paper, can cause jams.
- Paper load: Overloading the paper tray or using too much paper can lead to jams.
- Paper path: Obstacles in the paper path, like staples, paper clips, or even dust, can hinder the paper’s movement.
- Printer malfunction: Sometimes, a mechanical issue within the printer can cause jams.
The First Steps: Safety and Preparation
Before diving into troubleshooting, it’s important to prioritize safety and be prepared:
- Unplug the printer: Always unplug your Brother printer from the power outlet before attempting any repairs. This helps prevent electrical shocks and ensures your safety.
- Gather tools: You’ll need a flashlight and a pair of tweezers to help you see and reach into the printer’s crevices.
- Clear the surrounding area: Remove any objects around the printer that might obstruct your access.
Step 1: Visual Inspection and Paper Removal
1. Open the rear cover: Carefully open the rear cover of your Brother printer to access the paper path.
2. Locate the jam: Use your flashlight to look for the jammed paper. It might be visible at the rear exit or further inside the printer.
3. Remove the paper: Gently pull the jammed paper out, being careful not to tear it. If the paper is stuck, use your tweezers to help guide it out.
Step 2: Checking for Obstacles
1. Inspect the paper path: Once you’ve removed the jammed paper, use your flashlight to thoroughly examine the paper path for any obstacles like staples, paper clips, or debris.
2. Remove any obstacles: Carefully remove any obstacles you find, making sure not to damage any printer parts.
Step 3: Cleaning the Paper Path
1. Dust removal: Use a soft, dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris from the paper path.
2. Avoid liquids: Do not use any liquids or cleaning solutions, as they could damage the printer’s internal components.
Step 4: Checking for Mechanical Issues
1. Paper rollers: Examine the paper rollers for any signs of damage or wear. If they are damaged, they may need to be replaced.
2. Paper feed mechanism: If you suspect a mechanical issue with the paper feed mechanism, it’s best to contact Brother customer support for assistance.
Step 5: Re-loading Paper
1. Remove and inspect: Remove any remaining paper from the paper tray and inspect it for any signs of damage or wrinkles.
2. Reload the paper: Reload the paper tray with fresh, high-quality paper, ensuring it’s properly aligned.
Step 6: Powering Up and Testing
1. Plug in the printer: Once you’ve completed all the above steps, plug the printer back into the power outlet.
2. Test print: Try printing a test page to see if the jam has been resolved.
The Final Step: Seeking Professional Help
If you’ve followed all the steps above and your Brother printer still experiences rear paper jams, it’s time to consider seeking professional help. Contact Brother customer support or a qualified repair technician for further assistance.
Beyond the Jam: Preventing Future Paper Jams
Here are some tips to prevent rear paper jams in your Brother printer:
- Use high-quality paper: Avoid using paper that’s too thin, too thick, or wrinkled.
- Don’t overload the paper tray: Only load the paper tray with the recommended amount of paper.
- Keep the paper path clear: Regularly clean the paper path to remove dust and debris.
- Avoid using damaged paper: Don’t use paper with tears, creases, or other damage.
- Check the paper settings: Ensure that the paper type and size settings in your printer driver match the paper you’re using.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What should I do if the paper is completely stuck and I can’t pull it out?
A: If the paper is completely stuck and you can’t pull it out, it’s best to contact Brother customer support or a qualified repair technician. Trying to force the paper out could damage the printer.
Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean the paper path?
A: You can use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean the paper path, but be careful not to use the suction directly on the printer’s internal components.
Q: How often should I clean the paper path?
A: It’s a good idea to clean the paper path at least once a month, or more often if you use the printer frequently.
Q: What if I see a message on the printer screen saying “Paper Jam“?
A: If you see a “Paper Jam” message on the printer screen, follow the instructions on the screen to troubleshoot the jam.
Q: Can I use a damp cloth to clean the paper path?
A: No, do not use a damp cloth to clean the paper path. Liquids can damage the printer’s internal components. Use a soft, dry cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.