What would you do?

[happymonkey]

Yesterday, my HP 2355 printer/scanner stopped loading paper when printing - after 4 years. On closer inspection the rollers just wouldn't turn. So I stripped it down - as it's out of guarantee.

I found that the central cog (the one that turns ALL the paper loading rollers) had cracked and I don't think supergule will hold it in place because this plastic cog seems to take all the load of the metal turn-shaft, plus three other rollers (bad design :whistle:). I might try fitting some sort of clamp around the cog's spindle collar - as it's the only repair I can think of. I also couldn't find the cog being sold as a spare part, after numberous Google searches.

However, I was thinking of just replacing the whole printer/scanner with a newer model, but I feel it might be a waste of money that I don't really have. Although, I do use the printer frequently and like the features of the new C6280 model - mainly network-based printing, and WHQL-signed drivers for Windows XP x64 would be nice too.

So I thought I'd ask Neowin to help me decide. What would you do if you had to decide? Repair or replace?

Edited November 22, 2008 by happymonkey

[Fedr0]

Considering your needs, I'd just replace it. There are some very nice multifunctions, I'll suggest a Canon PIXMA MP620.

[shihchiun]

A new printer (the C6280) would cost about $140. It'll probably cost more to have the original one repaired.

[Rudy]

printers are cheap, not worth the trouble

[Mindovermaster Global Moderator]

It would cost more to get it fixed.

[happymonkey]

Looks like my decision has been made. It's a shame it's so difficult to get spares - it's only ONE piece, but that's mass-production for you. It will be sad to throw it out - seems too wasteful.

At least, I found another interesting feature the C6280 has over my previous model - PlayStation3 support (source) - but I never feel the need to print from my games console. :)

Edited November 19, 2008 by happymonkey

[Mindovermaster Global Moderator]

how does that work?

[Ricardo Gil]

Let's ask Jesus.

[Argote]

Well how much did your current printe originally cost? I usually go for priners in the $50 to $100 range and if anything happens I buy a new one, heck the new one even includes new cartridges

[happymonkey]

Well how much did your current printer originally cost? I usually go for printers in the $50 to $100 range and if anything happens I buy a new one, heck the new one even includes new cartridges

HP PSC 2355 cost €213.58 (I'm in shock I actually paid that - lol)

It came with cartridges and photopaper (still wrapped - I never print photos).

I can get the HP C6280 for €99.00 - what a difference 4 years make, huh?

Money-wise it isn't much, but I would rather use the money for a HDMI monitor - or xmas.

[Argote]

Well, can you get it fixed for less than 99 Euro?

[happymonkey]

Well, the answer is YES!

After looking at the C6280 (and some other models) in a local store, I decided it looked to "cheap" for my money and decided to track down a replacement plastic cog. I found someone on eBay advertising parts and contacted them.

Today, the new part arrived and I installed it promptly. Before it arrived, I thought it was going to a salvaged/secondhand part but it appeared to be BRAND new and of BETTER quality (i.e. thicker, stronger plastic).

Anyway, my trusted PSC-2355 is now back in action - for just €19 (includes priority postage). OK, a bit expensive for one plastic cog but it's better than throwing out a good printer and scanner. I hope to get (at least) another 4 years from it...