Is your Brother printer displaying a “Replace Drum” error? Don’t worry—replacing the drum unit is easier than you think! In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to replace the drum on a Brother printer with simple, step-by-step instructions. Whether you’re troubleshooting print quality issues or responding to an error message, this guide will help you get your printer back in working order quickly.
By the end of this article, you’ll know:
✔ When to replace your Brother printer drum
✔ Step-by-step instructions for drum replacement
✔ Common mistakes to avoid
✔ FAQs about Brother printer drum maintenance
Let’s dive in!
When Should You Replace the Drum on a Brother Printer?
The drum unit is a crucial part of your printer that transfers toner onto paper. Over time, it wears out and needs replacement. Here are signs that it’s time for a new drum:
🔴 “Replace Drum” warning appears on the display
🔴 Faded or streaky prints
🔴 Black spots or lines on printed pages
🔴 Frequent paper jams
Most Brother printer drums last between 12,000 to 25,000 pages, depending on usage. If you notice these symptoms, follow the steps below to replace it.
How to Replace Drum on Brother Printer: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Turn Off and Unplug the Printer
Before handling any internal components, ensure the printer is off and unplugged to avoid electrical hazards.
Step 2: Open the Printer Front Cover
- Lift the front cover until it locks into place.
- If your model has a toner access door, open it as well.
Step 3: Remove the Old Drum Unit
- Locate the green handle on the drum (common in Brother printers).
- Gently pull the drum unit straight out.
- Avoid touching the green roller (photosensitive drum) to prevent damage.
Step 4: Prepare the New Drum Unit
- Remove the new drum from its packaging.
- Shake it sideways 5-6 times to distribute toner evenly.
- Peel off any protective tape (if present).
Step 5: Insert the New Drum Unit
- Align the new drum with the printer’s grooves.
- Push it in firmly but gently until it clicks into place.
Step 6: Reset the Drum Counter (If Needed)
Some Brother printers require a drum reset after replacement. Here’s how:
- Press “Menu”on the printer display.
- Navigate to “Machine Info” > “Reset Drum”.
- Confirm the reset.
Step 7: Close the Cover and Test Print
- Securely close the front cover.
- Plug in and turn on the printer.
- Print a test page to confirm everything works.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Replacing the Drum
❌ Touching the drum roller (can cause print defects)
❌ Forgetting to remove protective tape (leads to printing errors)
❌ Not resetting the drum counter (printer may still show “Replace Drum”)
❌ Using a non-genuine Brother drum (can damage the printer)
FAQs About Brother Printer Drum Replacement
How often should I replace the drum on my Brother printer?
Most Brother drums last 12,000–25,000 pages. Check your printer’s manual for exact lifespan details.
Can I clean the drum instead of replacing it?
Sometimes, gently wiping the drum with a lint-free cloth can fix streaks, but if the error persists, replacement is necessary.
Why is my Brother printer still saying "Replace Drum" after installing a new one?
You may need to reset the drum counter (see Step 6 above).
Where can I buy a genuine Brother drum unit?
Purchase from Brother’s official website, Amazon, or authorized retailers to avoid counterfeit parts.
Is replacing the drum the same as replacing the toner?
No! The toner cartridge holds ink, while the drum unit transfers it to paper. Some Brother printers have separate drums and toners.
Conclusion
Replacing the drum on your Brother printer is a simple process that can save you time and money compared to professional servicing. By following this step-by-step guide, you can resolve print quality issues and extend your printer’s lifespan.
Need more help? Check out our guide on [Brother printer maintenance tips] or leave a comment below!
Now that you know how to replace drum on Brother printer, why not give it a try? Your printer (and your wallet) will thank you!