Overview

This article deals with the print quality defects known as "blocking", "smudging" and “poor fuse grade”. While the fuser unit is the most likely source of the issue, it is possible that the fuser is not damaged. but rather failing to reach its proper operating temperature due to incorrect settings.
 

• Blocking refers to toner flaking or peeling off the page if something is written on media placed on top of the printed page. 
• Smudging refers to the toner breaking off a page when it is rubbed. This will normally only happen with grayscale images.

 

 

Print Defect Sample

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Click Image to Enlarge	Click Image to Enlarge

This article will help you confirm the problem. Please refer to the directions in the table below to help determine which hardware part is causing the issue.

 

 

Troubleshooting

Steps	Actions
1	Check to see whether the printer supports the paper being used and that it meets all recommendations listed in the User’s Guide.
2	Make sure the Paper Type Setting on the printer and in the driver/software matches the type of paper loaded in the tray.
3	The toner may have difficulty adhering to thicker paper such as Label or Bond media. In order to increase the bonding or fusing temperature, change the Paper Weight settings to "Heavy". To do this, follow the simple steps below.   To set to Heavy: Menus > Paper Menu > Paper Size/Type > Tray1 Type > Heavy Paper > Check button
4	If issue persists after performing the steps mentioned above, an issue may exist within the machine's hardware. Please contact Lexmark Technical Support for other troubleshooting suggestions.

 

 

Contacting Lexmark

Please contact Lexmark Technical Support if you need additional assistance. NOTE: When calling for support, you will be asked for your machine/model type and serial number (SN). If you need help locating your printer's model type and serial number, click here.

Please call from near the printer in case the technician on the phone asks you to perform a task involving the printer.