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If your Xerox AltaLink B8100 Series copier is prompting you to replace the transfer belt cleaner, you may be wondering what this part does and whether it's something you can replace yourself. While the name sounds technical, replacing the transfer belt cleaner (or the second bias transfer roll) is a simple maintenance task you can do in just a few minutes.
The transfer belt cleaner is responsible for removing excess toner from the transfer belt after each print cycle. Over time, it reaches the end of its service life and needs to be replaced to help maintain print quality and keep the copier operating reliably. Fortunately, Xerox monitors the life of this component and alerts you when it's time for a replacement.
We've serviced thousands of Xerox printers and copiers across North Texas over the past 40+ years.
In this guide, our expert technician Matthew from The Printing Workshop will show you exactly how to replace the transfer belt cleaner on a Xerox AltaLink B8100/C8100Series copier.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Transfer Belt Cleaner?
- When Should You Replace the Transfer Belt Cleaner?
- How to Replace the Transfer Belt Cleaner on a Xerox AltaLink B8100
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Quick Recap
- FAQ
What Is a Transfer Belt Cleaner?
A transfer belt cleaner removes excess toner from the transfer belt after each print job. This helps keep toner from building up inside the copier and supports consistent print quality.
During the printing process, not all toner transfers perfectly onto the paper. The transfer belt cleaner wipes away any remaining toner before the next page is printed, so the copier can continue producing clean, professional-looking output.
Because this component performs this task every time the printer runs, it naturally wears over time and eventually needs replacement.
When Should You Replace the Transfer Belt Cleaner?
You should replace the transfer belt cleaner when your Xerox AltaLink B8100/C8100 Series printer displays a maintenance message indicating the component has reached the end of its service life.
Most users won't notice problems before the notification appears because the copier tracks the life of the transfer belt cleaner automatically.
Once the message appears, it's best to replace the cleaner quickly to help maintain image quality and prevent excess toner from accumulating inside the machine.
How Do You Replace the Transfer Belt Cleaner on a Xerox AltaLink B8100/C8100?
To replace the transfer belt cleaner on a Xerox AltaLink B8100/C8100, open the front cover, remove the waste toner transport assembly, unlock and remove the transfer belt cleaner, install the replacement unit, and reassemble the copier.
Below are the detailed steps.
Step 1: Open the Front Cover
Begin by opening the copier's front cover to access the internal maintenance part you'll need to reach the transfer belt cleaner.
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Step 2: Remove the Waste Toner Transport Assembly
Before accessing the transfer belt cleaner, you'll first need to remove the waste toner transport assembly.
Unlock the assembly, press the release tabs on both sides, and pull it straight toward you.
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Once removed, set it on a clean, stable surface while you complete the replacement.
Step 3: Locate and Unlock the Transfer Belt Cleaner
Inside the opening, look toward the upper-right corner of the copier.
You'll find the transfer belt cleaner, labeled R6.
Locate the orange locking handle and rotate it counterclockwise to unlock the assembly.
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Once unlocked, grab the handle and pull the transfer belt cleaner straight out.
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Step 4: Install the New Transfer Belt Cleaner
Locate a guide on the top of the transfer belt cleaner that lines up with a matching slot inside the copier.
Align the guide with the slot and carefully slide the cleaner straight into the machine until it is fully seated.
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If it doesn't slide in easily, remove it and verify the alignment before trying again.
Step 5: Lock the Transfer Belt Cleaner
After fully inserting the replacement cleaner, rotate the orange locking handle clockwise about one-quarter turn.
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This secures the transfer belt cleaner in place and ensures it won't move during operation.
Step 6: Reinstall the Waste Toner Transport Assembly
Place the waste toner transport assembly back into position and use both thumbs to apply even pressure on each side until both sides click securely into place.
Finally, rotate the orange lock to secure the assembly.
Step 7: Close the Front Cover
Close the front cover.
Your Xerox AltaLink B8100/C8100 should recognize the newly installed transfer belt cleaner automatically, and you'll be ready to resume printing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Replacing the transfer belt cleaner is a relatively simple procedure, but there are a few mistakes worth avoiding.
- Forgetting to unlock the transfer belt cleaner
- Misaligning the guide during installation
- Not locking the new cleaner
- Uneven pressure on the waste toner transport assembly
These simple steps can help ensure the replacement is completed correctly the first time.
Quick Summary
Here's a recap of the replacement process:
- Open the front cover.
- Remove the waste toner transport assembly.
- Locate and unlock the R6 transfer belt cleaner.
- Pull the transfer belt cleaner straight out.
- Install the new transfer belt cleaner.
- Lock the cleaner in place.
- Reinstall the waste toner transport assembly.
- Close the front cover.
FAQ
What does a transfer belt cleaner do?
A transfer belt cleaner removes excess toner from the transfer belt after each print cycle to help maintain print quality.
How do I know when the transfer belt cleaner needs replacement?
The Xerox AltaLink B8100 will typically display a maintenance message when the transfer belt cleaner reaches the end of its service life.
Where is the transfer belt cleaner located?
The transfer belt cleaner is located inside the copier behind the waste toner transport assembly and is labeled R6.
Can I replace the transfer belt cleaner myself?
Yes. Xerox designed this component to be customer replaceable, and most users can complete the process in just a few minutes.
What happens if I don't replace the transfer belt cleaner?
Continuing to use a worn transfer belt cleaner may allow excess toner to build up inside the copier, which can eventually affect print quality and overall performance.
Proper Transfer Belt Cleaner Replacement Helps Maintain Print Quality
Although the transfer belt cleaner isn't one of the most visible components inside your Xerox AltaLink B8100/C8100, it performs an important job every time you print. Replacing it when prompted helps keep excess toner from building up inside the machine, supports consistent print quality, and helps your copier continue working properly.
At STPT, we've spent decades helping businesses maintain Xerox equipment, and simple maintenance procedures like this often help prevent larger issues down the road.
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