IBM 3 User Manual page 328

Problem: Printing is too light or partial characters print
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2:
Problem: Wavy print lines
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2:
Problem: Ribbon snagging, tearing, or not moving
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3:
4:
Problem: Ribbon moves continuously
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Problem: Line-to-line horizontal misregistration
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4247 Model 003 User's Guide
Solution: Replace the ribbon. See Removing the Ribbon Cartridge in
Chapter 19, "Supplies, Optional Features, and Maintenance".
The Automatic Forms Thickness Adjustment (AFTA) setting for the paper
source you are using needs to be changed. Do not attempt to manually
move the AFTA wheel. Paper must be loaded for this adjustment to be
effective.
Solution: See the procedure for adjusting the forms thickness setting
through the operator panel in Chapter 11, "Printer Adjustments". If you
suspect that the AFTA wheel has been manually moved park the forms,
open and close the top cover, and load the forms.
The ribbon guide is seated incorrectly or the white snap arm is not
snapped into place.
Solution: Remove the ribbon and reinstall it. See Installing Ribbon
Cartridge in Chapter 19, "Supplies, Optional Features, and Maintenance".
The Automatic Forms Thickness Adjustment (AFTA) setting for the paper
source you are using needs to be changed. Paper must be loaded for this
adjustment to be effective.
Solution: See the procedure for adjusting the forms thickness setting
through the operator panel in Chapter 11, "Printer Adjustments".
The forms are loaded incorrectly.
Solution: Check to see that the forms are properly loaded.
The ribbon is worn.
Solution: Replace the ribbon cartridge. See Removing the Ribbon Cartridge
in Chapter 19, "Supplies, Optional Features, and Maintenance".
The ribbon cartridge is not properly installed.
Solution: Remove and then reinstall the same ribbon. See Removing the
Ribbon Cartridge in Chapter 19, "Supplies, Optional Features, and
Maintenance". If the ribbon still does not move, replace the ribbon.
The Automatic Forms Thickness Adjustment (AFTA) setting for the paper
source you are using needs to be changed. Paper must be loaded for this
adjustment to be effective.
Solution: See the procedure for adjusting the forms thickness setting
through the operator panel in Chapter 11, "Printer Adjustments".
The printhead is catching on the ribbon.
Solution: Call for service if, after doing Automatic Forms Thickness
Adjustment, the Fixed 8 is offset 3.
The ribbon drive circuit is failing.
Solution: Call for service.
The dot registration of the characters printed is not aligned.
Solution: See the Bidirectional Adjustment in Chapter 11, "Printer
Adjustments".