Production MFP's

[Copy of a Copy]

I have worked on larger Toshiba mfps like a 7516ac. Are working on production copiers that stretch like 20 feet plus in length all that different to work on? I would imagine there would just be more boards for each section of bridge or finisher units but as far as the main unit, I would think the boards and troubleshooting process would be relatively similar. loaded question I know.

[Saturn]

Re: Production MFP's

The requirements for service response time, reliability and print quality are significantly higher. There are many different paper feed and finishing options. The machines are also much more robust and built for long runs.

[allan]

Re: Production MFP's

I find production machines easier to work on. More modular and space to work. The trouble shooting is all the same. Do not be intimidated by the size of it. As mentioned the uptime gets much more critical.

[mrwho]

Re: Production MFP's

My experience from my time on the field:

Pros:
- Easier to work on
- Parts are generally more accessible inside the machine compared to smaller MFPs
- Service modes usually have more options that will help you diagnose the problems
- If properly maintained, will have many more prints in between calls

Cons:
- Much heavier - if for any reason you need to move it aside, you'll have a hard time
- Customers are much more demanding (with good reason) regarding both quality and response time
- The argument "You see, there's nothing we can do - it's by design" will be much more dificult to sell to the customer.

[slimslob]

Re: Production MFP's

With production models it is best to keep downtime to a minimum. To achieve that it is advisable to utilize either Field Replacement Modules or Customer Replacement Modules for B/W productions. The main difference is who replaces the modules, you or a trained customer. In either case you do the rebuilds, PMs, usually in shop. For color Production I found it best to have a full set of PCU cleaning stations and an ITB cleaning station to swap our at the customer's and rebuild in shop.

[Copy of a Copy]

Re: Production MFP's

Wow! Great information. Thanks everyone. This site has become invaluable. I think it's time to contribute. Thanks again.

[rthonpm]

Re: Production MFP's

For production sized machines, make sure you keep as close to the PM schedule as possible either with an onsite rebuild or customer replacements. You can run past the yield in most cases, but it's better to keep ahead, especially as the machines run hard and when things go bad: they go bad. My profile pic is from a tear down of an old AF 2075 that had the developer unit contaminate all of the feed bearings and gears. Took a couple hours to replace all of them and get the machine back together, all because the previous tech never kept up with the PM cycles and replacements.

[SalesServiceGuy]

Re: Production MFP's

Servicing production machines requires a differnt mindset on the part of your business owner.

Be prepared to stock locally, a dedicated parts cabinet. Customers do not really want to hear about how I can get the part next day by Air freight (which might stretch into two days).

[dalewb74]

Re: Production MFP's

as mentioned, stay on top of the maintenance.

[ninadobrev]

Re: Production MFP's

While your experience with the Toshiba 7516ac is valuable, working on 20+ foot production copiers will likely involve additional challenges due to their scale, complexity, and specialized requirements. Adapting to new systems, gaining specific knowledge, and utilizing proper procedures will be crucial for successful service.

fnf

[anothertech]

Re: Production MFP's

as mentioned, stay on top of the maintenance.

1+ I can't stress this enough. On production, you can't let parts go till failure. You must do proper PM's and constantly be on the lookout for what you think the next service call will be and fix it while you're there, before it fails. Also important to stay on top of firmware updates.

Print shop managers don't want to hear you say the feed rollers needed to be replaced, when you were just there two days ago and they haven't run the machine much since then.