Zebra ZT411 ZT421 How To Replace The Platen Roller

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Step-By-Step Instructions To Replace The Platen Roller On The Zebra ZT411 and ZT421

Replacing the platen roller on your Zebra ZT411 or ZT421 printer is a straightforward process that can be completed in a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the replacement:

How to Replace the Platen Roller on Zebra ZT411/ZT421

1. Power Down and Unplug the Printer
• Turn off the printer using the power button.
• Unplug the printer from the power source to ensure safety during maintenance.
2. Open the Printer Cover
• Lift the top cover of the printer to access the internal components.
3. Remove the Media
• Take out any labels or media inside the printer to prevent them from getting damaged or dirty during the replacement process.
4. Release the Platen Roller
• Locate the platen roller, which is the long rubber roller situated in the middle of the printer.
• Pull the platen-bearing latch release tabs on both the right and left sides towards the front of the printer and rotate them upwards.
• Carefully lift the platen roller out of the printer’s bottom frame.
5. Remove the Gear and Bearings
• Slide the gear and the two bearings off the shaft of the platen roller.
6. Install the New Platen Roller
• Align the new platen roller with the gear to the left.
• Lower it into the printer’s bottom frame, ensuring it sits securely.
• Make sure the bearings and drive gear are properly positioned on the shaft of the platen roller.
7. Secure the Platen Roller
• Rotate the platen-bearing latch release tabs down towards the rear of the printer and snap them into place to secure the platen roller.
8. Reassemble the Printer
• Reload the media back into the printer.
• Close the printer cover securely.
9. Power On the Printer
• Plug the printer back into the power source.
• Turn on the printer using the power button.

Cleaning the Platen Roller (Optional but Recommended)

• Use a Lint-Free Cloth or Swab: Moisten a lint-free cloth or swab with 99.7% pure medical-grade isopropyl alcohol.
• Clean the Platen Surface: Gently wipe the platen roller from the center outwards to remove any contaminants.
• Repeat if Necessary: If there is heavy adhesive build-up or label jam, repeat the cleaning process with a new swab or cloth until the roller surface is thoroughly cleaned.

Important Notes

• Handle with Care: Avoid touching the rubber surface of the new platen roller with your bare hands to prevent contamination.
• Use Only Compatible Parts: Ensure that the replacement platen roller is compatible with your printer model. For example, the Zebra ZT421 uses part number P1058930-081 for both 203dpi and 300dpi models.
• Allow Drying Time: After cleaning, allow the printer to dry for one minute before closing the dispenser door and the media cover, and before loading new media.