How To Replace Ribbon on Markem X40 / X45 / X65 – Step-by-Step TTO Guide

Thermal Transfer Overprinters such as Markem X40, Markem X45, and Markem X65 are widely used in food, pharmaceutical, and flexible packaging lines. Correct ribbon replacement is essential to maintain print quality and avoid unnecessary downtime.

Before starting, stop the packaging line and allow the printhead to cool down. Open the printhead by releasing the locking lever until the head is fully raised. Remove the used ribbon from both the supply and rewind shafts, checking for debris or ribbon fragments.

Install the new ribbon onto the supply shaft, ensuring the ink-coated side is facing the correct direction. Guide the ribbon along the illustrated ribbon path, passing smoothly under the printhead and around the guide rollers. Attach the ribbon firmly to the rewind shaft and remove any slack.

Close the printhead until it locks into place. Power on the printer and run ribbon calibration or auto-tension setup. Perform several test prints to confirm stable ribbon tracking and clear print results.

Proper ribbon installation helps prevent ribbon break errors, print fading, and premature printhead wear.