Ricoh MPC4503 - Duplex Jam at Fuser / Paper Exit Unit

[Peter Zeravla]

I meant the spring to shorten because it becomes loose, not the solenoid, nothing, but I don't think that's the problem, because from code j027
for 5-804, I don't remember the exact sp, but you should find it quite easily, I think it's called "inversion gate" or "exit gate" or something like that
anyway if in doubt, you can still order a new one, it won't do any harm, it costs about 5 euros, I'll give you the code
D1494434 TENSION SPRING:LEVER:GATE PAWL 5,15 €

Thanks for the info!

Just to clarify, I’ve already tested the machine with a different fuser, a different Paper Exit Unit, and also swapped the guide in the duplex. So the solenoid itself (inside the Paper Exit Unit) has also been replaced — which makes me think the issue might not be with the solenoid mechanically, but rather that it’s not receiving the signal to activate.

I’ve been checking SP 5-804, but I haven’t found an option to manually trigger or test that solenoid. Do you know which SP code would allow me to do that? I'd like to confirm if it’s working or if it's not being activated at all.

Thanks again for your help!

[slimslob]

Thanks a lot for the detailed explanation — it makes a lot of sense.

Just to clarify, I’ve already tested the machine with a different fuser, a different Paper Exit Unit, and also swapped the guide in the duplex. The issue still happens.

I also blew air on the Fusing Exit Sensor, but that didn’t help. So now I’ll try replacing the sensor entirely, since it really does sound like it could be the source of the problem.

The Fusing Exit Fan seems to be working fine — I was able to activate it through SP mode 5804-110.

Your point about the fusing motor stopping faster than the paper transport motor really explains the accordion fold I see at the trailing edge. That matches what’s happening in my case.

One thing I didn’t fully understand: when you say “if the sensor is mounted on the duplex door,” could you explain a bit more? In my case, the paper never reaches the duplex unit — it jams just before exiting the Paper Exit Unit.

I’ve also attached a photo where I’ve marked the area where I believe the Fusing Exit Sensor is located. Please let me know if I’ve identified it correctly, or if the actual sensor is somewhere else.

Thanks again for all your help!

That image is not the fusing exit sensor. That is a pair of interrupt sensors. The exit sensor would be a reflection sensor located slightly above the fusing unit. Some models it was mounted on the duplex door, on others it is mounted in the main frame. It is slightly above the top of the fussing unit and centered so that it can detect the lead edge of the paper as it leaves the fussing unit. Usually unless the lenses are dirty you need to replace with new. Heat eventually causes them to fail as does age.

[Peter Zeravla]

That image is not the fusing exit sensor. That is a pair of interrupt sensors. The exit sensor would be a reflection sensor located slightly above the fusing unit. Some models it was mounted on the duplex door, on others it is mounted in the main frame. It is slightly above the top of the fussing unit and centered so that it can detect the lead edge of the paper as it leaves the fussing unit. Usually unless the lenses are dirty you need to replace with new. Heat eventually causes them to fail as does age.

Do you mean the one in the picture? If I remember correctly, that sensor is part of the Paper Exit Unit — so if that's the case, I’ve already replaced it when I swapped the entire unit. Would that mean the sensor has already been changed too?

Just trying to make sure I’m looking at the right component. Thanks again!

[luca72]

Thanks for the info!

Just to clarify, I’ve already tested the machine with a different fuser, a different Paper Exit Unit, and also swapped the guide in the duplex. So the solenoid itself (inside the Paper Exit Unit) has also been replaced — which makes me think the issue might not be with the solenoid mechanically, but rather that it’s not receiving the signal to activate.

I’ve been checking SP 5-804, but I haven’t found an option to manually trigger or test that solenoid. Do you know which SP code would allow me to do that? I'd like to confirm if it’s working or if it's not being activated at all.

Thanks again for your help!

i check, sp-505-004 "exit junction solenoid", you can open the right door, activate the to switch, and observe the gate open close, usualy the problem its that the gate opened, tend to fall down slighty, causing obstruction to the passage of the paper.
while you are at it, clean all the rollers of the paper exit unit thoroughly with a rag and thinner

[Popolopo]

I’ve also attached a photo where I’ve marked the area where I believe the Fusing Exit Sensor is located. Please let me know if I’ve identified it correctly, or if the actual sensor is somewhere else.

Thanks again for all your help!

nope. that is shield position sensor for fusing. not exit sensor.
did you try change IOB paper transport?