HP LaserJet 2, 3

If you have an SX-engine printer, you've probably become addicted to its easy operation and sharp output. The Hewlett-Packard Series II/III, Apple Laser Writer II series, and the many other printers in this class, are the low-maintenance workhorses that still comprise 40 percent of all printers used today. (If yours takes an EP-S toner cartridge, it's an SX printer.) But don't be lulled into thinking your printer is maintenance-free. Without regular care and servicing, its parts and output will suffer.

Basics: Dust and Parts

Dust (including paper dust) is one of the primary culprits that causes poor print quality. Keep the exterior of the printer, and the area around it, as dust-free as possible. Beyond basic housework, you'll need a few cleaning supplies: cotton balls or a soft cloth, Q-tips and water. Turn off your printer and open it, then familiarize yourself with the printer's major parts.

Toner Catridge: The Heart and Soul of the Printer

To clean your toner cartridge's corona wires, use the padded end of the small cleaning tool located just left of the paper-feed guide. Find the slot on the cartridge that's covered with black cellophane and push the padded end of the cleaning tool into it, sliding it back and forth several times.

Fuser Assembly: Under the Big, Green Door

With the printer open, find the large green cover at the back of the machine that reads "Warning: High Temperature." Under it is the fuser wand; carefully remove it using the fuzzy green handle in the center. Now you'll see the fuser roller. Clean it gently with a cotton ball or Q-tip, being careful not to scratch it or allow dirt to fall back into the machine. Behind the main fuser assembly lid is a smaller black or green door; open it to clean the paper separation claws. You'll find a wide, black-ridged paper guide located in front of the fuser assembly. Clean it with a cotton ball or a soft cloth slightly dampened with water.

Transfer and Corona Wires: Think Fishing Line

Printer transfer wires are fine strands that run across a silver well,just in front of the paper feed guide. Below them is a long, fine corona wire. Clean the wires with a Q-tip. Be gentle; the wires are fragile and costly to replace. Finally, wipe off the orange pads at each end of the well with a Q-tip.

Transfer Guide: The Chrome Thing

The chrome-colored transfer guide is located in front of the transfer wires. Use a slightly damp cloth or cotton ball to wipe it off: Using the centered green handle in front of the transfer bar, lift up the lock key and wipe off any paper dust on the plate below.

It takes just a little time to follow these basic cleaning steps. Be aware, however, that your printer needs a thorough, professional cleaning and preventive maintenance check every year.