Skip to Content Information Center
Lexmark Forms Printer 2581

Lexmark Forms Printer 2581

Missing Lines or Dots on Every Character Printed on a Lexmark 25xx/24xx Forms Printer

Overview

This article outlines troubleshooting steps to try when the printout of your forms printer has missing dots or lines of a consistent height in each letter/character. The result looks like a 'white strikethrough' in the print from left to right. Click here to see a sample.

Troubleshooting

StepActionClick Image to Enlarge
1

Remove the ribbon and inspect it for any signs of damage.

  • • If the ribbon cloth shows signs of being worn out, replace the ribbon.
  • • If the ribbon cloth is not worn or does not show any signs of damage, reinstall it and make sure that both side of the ribbon is securely snapped down on the carrier.
No image
2

Turn the Ribbon Advance Knob on the print cartridge from 1 to 2 to increase the darkness of print. See image on the right.

Did it resolve the issue?Yes: Replace the ribbon as it may already be dry.No: Proceed with the next step.

3

Confirm that you are printing on plain white copy paper to eliminate the print media as part of the cause of the problem. Please try this even if the print media you are using worked in the past.
Note:
Specialty papers (like glossy, textured paper, label stock) can lead to print quality issues such as this.

For more information on recommended print media, see the chapter entitled 'Understanding paper and specialty media guidelines'in the printer's User's Guide.

No image
4 Set the Forms Thickness Lever to position 1. See right-hand image for its location. Run any print test. If the issue persists, continue in contacting Lexmark Technical Support for other troubleshooting suggestions.

Still Need Help?

Please contact Lexmark Technical Support if you need additional assistance.
NOTE:
When calling for support, you will be asked for your machine/model type and serial number (SN). If you need help locating these, How to Locate the Serial Number on a Lexmark 24xx/25xx/25xx+ Series Forms (Dot Matrix) Printer.

Please call from near the printer in case the technician on the phone asks you to perform a task involving the printer.

LEGACY ID: SO5342

Was this article helpful?
Top