Is your Brother MFC-8700DW printer displaying a “Replace Parts Belt Unit” message? This message indicates that your printer’s belt unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and needs replacement to ensure continued optimal printing quality. As a content creator at vcdstool.com and an expert in auto repair and printer maintenance, I understand the importance of keeping your equipment in top working order. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing the belt unit on your Brother MFC-8700DW, ensuring your printer continues to deliver crisp, clear documents.
Like many components in your Brother MFC-8700DW laser printer, the belt unit is a consumable item with a limited lifespan. Typically, a belt unit is designed to last for approximately 50,000 pages (based on A4/Letter single-sided pages). Once this page count is reached, or if the printer detects issues with the belt unit’s performance, the “Replace Parts Belt Unit” message will appear on the LCD display. Ignoring this message can lead to print quality issues and potentially damage your printer in the long run.
Before you begin, ensure you have a new belt unit compatible with your Brother MFC-8700DW printer. You can usually find the correct replacement part number in your printer’s manual or on the Brother website.
Steps to Replace the Belt Unit on your Brother MFC-8700DW:
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Power Off the Printer: Locate the power switch on the right side of your Brother MFC-8700DW and turn the printer OFF. Wait for at least 5 seconds to ensure the printer is completely powered down before proceeding.
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Open the Front Cover: Press the front cover release button, typically located on the front of the printer, and gently open the front cover.
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Remove the Drum Unit Assembly: Identify the green handle on the drum unit assembly. Grasp the green handle and pull the drum unit out towards you until it stops.
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Release the Drum Unit Lock Lever: Locate the green lock lever on the left side of the printer. Turn this lever counterclockwise to the release position. While holding the green handles of the drum unit, lift the front of the drum unit upwards and carefully remove it from the printer.
Note: If you encounter resistance when trying to remove the drum unit, double-check that the front cover is fully opened.
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Remove the Old Belt Unit: Now you will see the belt unit, also identifiable by its green handle. Hold the green handle of the belt unit with both hands. Lift the belt unit straight up and then pull it out of the printer.
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Install the New Belt Unit: Unpack your new belt unit. Carefully insert the new belt unit into the printer, ensuring it is level and fits firmly into place.
Important Note: Avoid touching the surface of the belt unit. Touching the belt unit can degrade print quality and potentially void your warranty due to improper handling.
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Reinstall the Drum Unit: Make sure the green lock lever is still in the release position. Align the guide ends of the drum unit with the small black arrows located on both sides inside the printer. Gently slide the drum unit back into the machine until it stops at the green lock lever.
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Lock the Drum Unit Lever: Turn the green lock lever clockwise to the lock position to secure the drum unit.
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Push Drum Unit In: Push the drum unit completely in until it is fully seated in its correct position.
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Close the Front Cover: Close the front cover of your Brother MFC-8700DW until it clicks into place.
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Reset the Belt Unit Counter: After replacing the belt unit, it’s crucial to reset the belt unit counter to clear the “Replace Parts Belt Unit” message and allow the printer to accurately track the lifespan of the new unit. Follow these steps on your printer’s control panel:
a. Press the MENU button. Then press 8 for “Machine Info”, and then 4 for “Reset Parts Life”.
b. Use the UP or DOWN ARROW keys to scroll and select Belt Unit. Press OK.
c. Press 1 to confirm that you want to reset the belt unit counter.
d. Press STOP/EXIT to return to the main menu.
By following these steps, you have successfully replaced the belt unit in your Brother MFC-8700DW printer and reset the necessary counter. This procedure will help you maintain the longevity and print quality of your printer. Regular maintenance, including timely replacement of consumable parts like the belt unit, is essential for keeping your Brother MFC-8700DW running smoothly.
While this guide focuses on belt unit replacement, vcdstool.com also offers resources and information related to various tools, including diagnostic tools that can be helpful for both auto repair and printer maintenance. Keep your Brother MFC-8700DW in optimal condition and ensure consistent performance for all your printing needs.
