Problem with Epson LQ 310 paper jam situation
Problem with Epson LQ 310 paper jam situation
Hi everyone.
This is my initial post on the forum.
I'm looking into issues related to dot matrix printer paper jams.
We currently have a few Epson LQ310 models in the workplace.
Printing a few continuous sheets works fine, but when printing in bulk (10 or more), the sprocket holes on the left and right sides begin to misalign. This leads to misalignment at the second and third ply of carbon paper, and eventually causes the paper to jam.
Anyone here have experienced this problem? Please let me know.
Where you are buying the paper matters a lot.
Cheap paper can cause serious issues.
If the paper and holes aren’t square, the pages might misalign.
There could be some tolerance for small errors, but once the misalignment reaches the 10 pcs point, one side will go out of shape and get stuck.
Other factors might also play a role.
This printer?
https://files.support.epson.com/pdf/lq300_/lq300_u1.pdf
Focus on the section about continuous paper starting from physically numbered Page 2-7.
Before proceeding, make sure to go through the full User's Guide.
It’s not rare for important details to be forgotten over time.
Appendix A-4: Paper specifications...
Where do you buy the paper? Cheap paper can cause serious issues.
If the paper and holes aren’t square, the pages might misalign.
There could be some tolerance for small errors, but once the misalignment reaches the 10 pcs point, one side will go out of shape and get stuck.
Other factors might also play a role.
This printer?
https://files.support.epson.com/pdf/lq300_/lq300_u1.pdf
Check the section about continuous paper starting on physically numbered Page 2-7.
Before taking any action, go through the entire User's Guide. It’s not rare for important details to be forgotten over time.
Appendix A-4: Paper specifications.
Troubleshooting is covered in Chapter 3.
Begin by checking and cleaning rollers, sprockets, etc.—just try elimination.
Use the printer’s User's Guide if you have it.
Then test other continuous 3-ply papers for comparison—just to see if the problem persists.
I hope you can quickly spot and fix the issue.
Hi Ralston18,
Thank you for your response.
We obtained the paper from a nearby printing company. They were unable to provide a viable solution. They suggested it could be related to our printer—possibly due to age, dirt, or other factors.
The printer model is LQ310, which is popular locally because of its affordable price.
We are using a 4ply NCR paper and the notch on the printer is set at no.5.
Despite these efforts, we have continued to encounter the same issue after nearly a year.
Please find the attached images for reference:
https://imgur.com/a/YOCTOxW
View: https://imgur.com/a/YOCTOxW
It might help clarify the problem.
As you can see, the sprocket hole has gradually shifted after running for almost 10 units, eventually leading to a paper jam.
I cleaned the roller with alcohol, but the problem persists.
Just for the record this is a year old thread and would normally be closed to further postings.
However, because of the history and details I will leave the thread open.
= = = =
Are those four little vertical marks every 2,3, or 4 sprocket holes apart actual paper tears?
Do the vertical marks match any physical part of the printer?
How firmly are the latches holding down the paper over the sprockets in place? In other words, will the paper slip a bit if you use a finger to slide the paper up/down or left/right while the paper is latched down over the sprockets?
Two things caught my attention so I googled for the printer's User Manual. Do verify that I found the applicable manual.
Printer Manual:
http://support2.epson.net/manuals/englis...aper_1.htm
Double check both the physical setup and your paper loading/removal procedures. It could be that some small detail has been overlooked or forgotten with time.
Maybe some earlier adjustment that worked for awhile but may be no longer necessary or applicable.
Reference the section on
Printing with Continuous Paper.
= = = =
You mentioned:
"Paper is a 4ply NCR. The notch on the printer is set at no.5. "
Why 5? That is a setting for envelopes.
Reference the section on
Adjusting the Paper Thickness Lever.
And note the trailing paragraph regarding Multipart forms.
= = = =
Overall, ask your paper supplier to provide you with some other higher quality continuous forms 4-ply for testing purposes. If you have been a good customer I would expect that they would do so.
The objective being to determine if the current forms have become so thin, slick, or otherwise degraded that the pages simply cannot hold up to the mechanics of being printed out.
It's highly probable that during that printer's age, a full overhaul of the feed system would be necessary. The platen is likely extremely hard and smooth, which could lead to feeding difficulties. Heavier or thicker materials will only exacerbate these problems.
Hi Ralston 18,
The four small marks mentioned by the supplier are for crimping to secure the paper. This 4-ply NCR features seven crimping marks across the entire 11-inch size. The positions of these marks vary from page to page. Some crimps are spaced about 4 sprocket holes apart, while others are closer at roughly 2 sprocket holes. The supplier explained that these marks are intended to firmly hold the paper together, and with seven marks along the length, it provides a strong grip. However, they noticed the paper begins to slide after only a few printing pages. Several other customers have reported similar problems, though the rate is relatively low given their production volume. They recommend avoiding continuous printing beyond 10 sheets at a time and tearing the paper off periodically. Resume printing once you tear it out.
Following your feedback, I conducted a test and found that the paper can be easily slid off in any direction—up, down, left, right—by gently rubbing with the thumb and index finger. One crimp started to detach, but others remained secure. This likely explains why the supplier specified these numbers.
Yes, this matches the printer model manual (LQ310). Concerning the notch, I tested various sizes from 1 to 5 and 6; the issue persisted consistently. I also tried different paper types, placed the sheet on the floor, and pulled it up during feeding in all directions—still no success. It appears this is the highest-quality paper available, despite supply chain challenges.
Hi ex_bubblehead,
Yes, you're correct about the roller that turns and rolls the paper through the feeding area—it's quite challenging. Isn't it expected to be that tough? I'm not very familiar with using a new printer, which is why I'm asking. Does the original platen roller on the new printer feel less hard?
The supplier's comments suggest the crimping is intended to securely hold the paper, with seven marks across eleven. It appears to be effective but may not be strong enough, especially since the paper starts sliding after only a few pages of printing. The roller feels hard and shiny, which likely contributes to the printing issues. Paper quality and roller wear seem to be the main factors. If the paper condition cannot be improved, consider replacing the roller to better handle the crimping and slipping problems.