Figure 5-1. Replacing the ribbon cartridge
REPLACING THE PRINT HEAD
The dot matrix print head has a life of about 200 million dots, or years
of normal use. When printing is too light even after replacing the ribbon,
you’ll know that the print head has reached the end of its service life. To
replace the print head, follow the procedure below.
As you remove the old print head, note carefully how the cable is
threaded, so that you can thread the new cable in the same way.
Warning: The print head becomes hot during operation. If you have been
using the printer, wait awhile so that the print head can cool
off.
1. Turn power OFF and unplug the power cord.
2. Remove the top cover and ribbon cartridge.
3. Move the print head carriage toward the right until you can see the
connector cover. Remove the connector cover and pull the cable free
from the connector.
4. Unscrew the two screws that hold the print head in place and set them
aside.
5. Disengage the cable from the tabs holding it down, then remove the
print head.
6. For easy installation of the new print head, move the carriage toward
the left end of the rail.
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