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I began hearing some clicking coming from my HP Laser Jet Pro M118 dw today, had recently changed the Printer Cartridge, but the clicking was coming from more of the top of the printer . . . I began getting a large black smear on the left hand side of my pages and a bunch of shredded "ribbon-like" material came out . . . Is this an Imaging Drum issue, and that's what needs replacing??

HP Imaging Drum Damage Image.jpg

3 REPLIES 3
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Hi @MCPress,

 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

 

It sounds like your HP LaserJet Pro M118dw is experiencing issues related to the imaging drum, especially since you're hearing clicking noises and seeing a black smear along with shredded material. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take.

 

Check the Imaging Drum:

  • Ensure that the imaging drum is correctly installed. Sometimes it can become misaligned during installation.
  • If the drum is damaged or has reached its end of life, it will need to be replaced.

Inspect for Obstructions:

  • Open the printer and check for any foreign objects or paper debris that may be causing the clicking noise or interfering with the drum.

Clean the Interior:

  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean any excess toner or debris inside the printer. Be careful not to touch the imaging drum surface with your fingers, as oils can affect print quality.

Check the Printer Cartridge:

  • Sometimes a faulty or improperly installed cartridge can cause similar issues. Make sure the cartridge is seated correctly and that the protective tape (if applicable) has been removed.

Print a Test Page:

  • After checking the above items, print a test page to see if the issue persists. If the smear remains, it may indicate a problem with the imaging drum.

Replace the Imaging Drum:

  • If you determine the imaging drum is worn out or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

 

I hope this helps.

 

Take care and have a good day.

 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

 

Alden4

HP Support 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
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My only problem is that I do not know what an Imaging Drum should look like in good condition. Mine seems fine, but I know that this odd black torn material suddenly appeared at the time of the issue. Was my image not helpful?? Replacing the drum is $102, so I would like to know before purchasing if it is indeed the issue. I just purchased a new printer cartridge as well (also $99) so this printer maintenance cost is high this month eating up half my profits, so I can't risk making an unecessary purchase.

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Hi @MCPress,

 

Thank you for your response, 

 

I'm sending a private message to assist you with the next action.

 

Please check your Private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Community profile Next, to your profile Name, you should see a little blue envelope, please click on it or simply click on this link.

 

I hope this helps! Keep me posted.

 

Alden4

HP Support 

Raj_05
HP Support Community Moderator
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