How to Clear Paper Jams on Your Brother DCP-L2640DW

Paper jams can disrupt your workflow, but they’re often easily resolved with a few simple steps. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of how to clear paper jams from your Brother DCP-L2640DW printer.

1. Clear Jams from the Front Cover

This is the most common area where paper jams occur, and it’s usually the easiest to access.

1. Open the front cover of the printer.
2. Slowly and carefully pull the jammed paper straight out.
3. Ensure all pieces of paper are removed.
4. Close the front cover firmly.

2. Clear Jams from the Rear Cover

Sometimes, paper gets stuck near the rear of the printer, requiring access through the rear cover. This is a very common place for thicker paper to jam.

1. Open the rear cover of the printer.
2. Gently pull the jammed paper straight out.
3. Check for any torn pieces of paper and remove them.
4. Close the rear cover securely.

3. Clear Jams from the Paper Tray

Paper can jam within the paper tray itself, especially if it’s overfilled or the paper is loaded incorrectly. This can also occur if the paper guides are not properly set.

1. Remove the paper tray from the printer.
2. Carefully remove any jammed paper from the tray.
3. Ensure the paper is loaded correctly and the paper guides are properly adjusted.
4. Reinsert the paper tray into the printer.

4. Clear Jams from the Manual Feed Slot

If you’re using the manual feed slot, paper can jam if it’s not inserted correctly. This is particularly frequent with envelopes or cardstock.

1. If paper is jammed in the manual feed slot, gently pull it straight out.
2. Ensure the paper is inserted correctly according to the printer’s instructions.
3. If the paper is torn, remove any remaining pieces.

5. Check the Duplex Tray Area

When performing duplex printing, paper can jam in the duplex tray area. This is most common when paper is curled, or the paper type selected in the print driver is incorrect.

1. Open the duplex tray cover (usually located at the back of the machine).
2. Carefully remove any jammed paper.
3. Ensure all paper fragments are removed.
4. Close the duplex tray cover securely.

6. Inspect the Toner Cartridge Area

Although less common, paper can sometimes jam near the toner cartridge. This may require removing the toner cartridge.

1. Open the front cover of the printer.
2. Remove the toner cartridge and drum unit.
3. Check for any jammed paper in the area and remove it carefully.
4. Reinstall the toner cartridge and drum unit.
5. Close the front cover.

7. Check for Obstructions

Sometimes, small objects or debris can cause paper jams. Thoroughly inspecting the paper path can identify these obstructions.

1. Carefully inspect all accessible areas of the paper path.
2. Remove any visible obstructions, such as paper clips or torn paper pieces.
3. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean any dust or debris.

8. Ensure Proper Paper Type and Size

Using the wrong paper type or size can lead to frequent jams. Ensuring your paper matches the printer’s specifications is essential.

1. Check the printer’s specifications for compatible paper types and sizes.
2. Load paper that meets the printer’s requirements.
3. Adjust the paper guides accordingly.

9. Avoid Overfilling the Paper Tray

Overfilling the paper tray can cause paper to feed incorrectly and jam. Ensuring the tray is filled to the appropriate level is crucial.

1. Do not exceed the maximum fill line indicated on the paper tray.
2. Ensure the paper stack is flat and even.
3. Avoid forcing too much paper into the tray.

10. Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

Dirty or worn paper feed rollers can cause paper to slip and jam. Cleaning them can improve paper feeding.

1. Turn off the printer and unplug it.
2. Open the front cover and remove the toner cartridge and drum unit.
3. Use a lint-free cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol to clean the rollers.
4. Allow the rollers to dry completely before reinstalling the toner cartridge and drum unit.
5. Close the front cover and plug the printer back in.

11. Replace Worn Parts

If paper jams continue despite cleaning and proper maintenance, worn parts like rollers or separation pads may need replacement.

1. Consult your printer’s user manual for instructions on replacing worn parts.
2. Contact Brother support or a qualified technician for assistance.

By diligently following these steps, you can effectively clear paper jams on your Brother DCP-L2640DW and minimize future occurrences. If jams persist after trying all the solutions, it’s advisable to seek assistance from Brother support or a qualified printer technician.