[Misc] Sharp AR455DR

[LaserSharp]

Client has a ar455 that they really like, problem is that the process unit keeps binding up and making a small gear to loose teeth, which pretty much requires the process unit be replaced.
I've come to understand in the past that a firmware upgrade should help alleviate this issue, but the local Sharp dealer when given the job, claims the firmware is all updated.
They then proceed to of course sell the customer a new machine. Personally I'm not that attached to it, but they wish to keep it running.

Hoping some of the vets here might be able to shed some more light on this for me. Seems a waste to have to replace the entire process unit over such a small gear.

[blackcat4866]

Re: Sharp AR455DR

I've fixed plenty of these cleaning units. It's the auger & gear that usually break. Occasionally the plastic post can break that supports a small idler gear. For that, yes, you do have to replace the cleaning unit.

There are a couple of underlying causes that may not be so obvious. The firmware is supposed to fix it, but won't compensate for the other possibilities.
1) Customer copies with the lid up. Tripling toner usage also triples the waste toner volume that has to be handled. It just can't keep up. I have to laugh when they say " ... we don't have time to close the lid between originals. It takes too long." What about the extra service, parts, and triple toner usage?
2) One of the delivery/turnover fans has seized up. The fuser heat elevates the internal temperature inside the machine, literally fusing the waste toner inside the cleaning unit. If you catch it before the auger breaks, you'll see a layer of fused toner stuck to the upper surfaces of the cleaning unit. If you catch it too late the whole thing will be a brick. It can be chipped out, and the auger & gear replaced (if the post is intact). But the time spent ends up costing about the same as a new cleaning unit. (6 of one, 1/2 dozen of another, same end result)
=^..^=