Introduction

Routine maintenance and cleaning of the Sato S84 and S84-EX printers are recommended to keep the printer in best working order. The following instructions cover the basic procedures that should be performed. 


It is generally recommended that these steps are performed once for every roll of labels run through the printer, but this can be effected by environmental conditions. For additional recommendations, contact Eii Customer Support.



Cleaning the Print Head

1. Open the printer cover.
2. Open the print head by twisting the print head lever counterclockwise.
3. Wipe the print head with isopropyl alcohol and  a soft, clean cloth. The print head should not be soaked in isopropyl alcohol or other cleaning solutions.
  • Check for any labels stuck to the print head, and remove them.
  • Make sure all adhesive and dirt/dust are removed.

 
4. Close the print head by twisting the print head lever clockwise.


Cleaning the Pinch Gate

1. Lower the pinch gate by pushing the pinch gate release button.
2. Remove the pinch gate by unscrewing the thumb screw.
3. Wipe the pinch gate with lint-free cloth/towels and isopropyl alcohol. The pinch gate should not be soaked in isopropyl alcohol or other cleaning solutions. 
  • Check for any labels stuck to the pinch gate, and remove them.
  • Make sure all adhesive and dirt/dust are removed.

Note: If necessary, a wire brush may be used to clean the textured roller if the buildup is excessive.
4. Re-attach the pinch gate. Make sure the thumb screw has been tightened securely.
5. Close the pinch gate.


Cleaning the Platen Rollers

S84 printers have three platen rollers that need to be cleaned.

1. Make sure all label pieces are removed from the platen rollers.

2. Wipe the rollers with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol. The platen rollers should not be soaked in isopropyl alcohol or other cleaning solutions. 
  • Make sure all adhesive and dirt/dust are removed.
  • When rubbed with a finger, the surface should be smooth.


Cleaning the Gap Sensor

The gap sensor should be cleaned with the same regularity as the other printer components, but due to the sensitive nature of the procedure, it is covered in a separate article. Please refer to the Cleaning a Gap Sensor article within the Sato S84/S84-ex category.


WARNING: Under no circumstances should the gap sensor be taken apart or opened. Doing so will require replacement of the print engine.


Conclusion

Once all pieces have been cleaned, return any removed components to the printer, and close the printer's cover.