How to Fix a Broken Paper Shredder Fast and Easy Teardown and Repair

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Today we look at how to fix a broken paper shredder. The shredder itself is really quite simple and I will walk you through the process of identifying the parts of the machine that could be broken or giving you trouble. I also explain methods for cleaning and maintaining your shredder so that it can give you many years of trouble free use. Sometimes you can even fix it for free by cleaning or unsticking stuck parts. Any questions let me know and I'll do what I can to help you.

[@MsSoso19751]

Did u find out where the black piece got?

[@CharlotteMyersMsRealDreamer]

Your Diy worked! The Shredder I bought at a Yardsale would not do anything so I opened it and there was pap stuck between the sensor and blades. After cleaning the blades out I also maintenance the blades with oil and paper now it works great. I recommend this video.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Thanks, glad I could help.

[@stevesefton1373]

Excellent video of how to repair a domestic shredder. I was going to dump our shredder and replace it at a time when money is very tight. However the simple clear instructions enabled me to disassemble and repair ours. Thank you!😊👍

[@Shaun_Jones]

The company I work for broke their shredder a few months ago and IT couldn’t get it working. They replaced it with a new one and said that anyone who wanted to try and fix it could have it. I know nothing about paper shredders, but I decided to have a go. I had it fixed in under a minute. The IT-stumping problem? It was turned off. No, seriously; someone had apparently hit the main power toggle switch and couldn’t find it again. I offered to give it back, but since they had already replaced it, I was told to keep it. It now sits in my cubicle.

[@lukrid9894]

What a fantastic video on something so seemingly obscure. I was preparing to throw away my shredder as it was cheap, jammed and something had popped out inside. Your wonderful easy to follow descriptions helped me identify the broken sensor in mine and reattach it.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad it helped!

[@cherrypoutines6269]

I fixed my shredder thanks to your video. I was gonna trash it. Thanks for saving it!!!

[@DJRaptorXS]

The white plastic rod switch was broken on my shredder. Thanks to this video, I did a small improvised repair. It prevented me from having to throw out an otherwise working device. Thanks!

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad it helped

[@djuanadennis]

Where do we put the sensor?

[@Chad.Telecaster]

Brilliant, after watching this I just fixed my 3 years broken Fellows shredder. Cheers mate

[@michaeledge9028]

Thanks so much for your video . Almost thru my shredder away until I came to your video . You show me where the problem was and I was able to fix my shredder .

[@pamnowell5543]

Really helped me understand shredders. And I was able to FIX mine. TY so much.

[@patharris5320]

I searched and finally found THIS video that could show me the white plastic sensor and how to put it back in place. It came loose and fell off after I opened the shredder to clear out the jammed paper. Thank you for a great video. I was able to fix my own shredder! 😊

[@heidimoser2118]

I had two shredders not working. The first was old style long cut. I did take it apart and I did attempt various fixes to no avail. But heck, it was long cut. It needed a proper burial. Next I took apart the cross cut. Turns out that was the sensor -- just needed a little bending to make contact and now it is working just fine. There was also a LOT of gummy gunk inside, so I wiped off the excess. After putting it back together I gave it a little TLC with tin foil and then some oil. I thank you. The shredder thanks you.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad I could help.

[@christinecrawford3386]

Thanks so much for this easy-to-understand video. My shredder now works like a charm again!

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad it helped!

[@morgankennedy5049]

I know this is a a old video but I stumbled across it and it is very helpful only thing is i don’t know where to put the bucket sensor

[@ModernDIYProjects]

That is very hard to answer since that will vary from one manufatcurer to the other. It is also model specific. Just put it back where it looks like it belongs, or try to find the schematics for your shredder online. If you cant figure it out what I suggest is just to tape it open, (or shut depending on the model) and let it hang outside the bucket. Just be careful to always unplug the shredder before you remove it from the bucket that way you never get hurt.

[@justmemother2]

Thank you so much. You saved me money on paper and a new paper shredder. I appreciate you, keep up the good work! 👍👏👍

[@ModernDIYProjects]

You're very welcome!

[@emmatisdale3031]

Thanks for sharing. Your instructions were clear and straight forward. My cross shredder is working like a charm. 👍 Initially, I too, was ready to throw in the towel.

[@dmgs2016]

Thank you for sharing all your tips and explanations! My shredder is up and running again!😊

[@B0TZ]

Thanks man.I had to glue my stick so it doesnt come out.Finally it worked on auto.

[@soniagarrick3627]

Brilliant! Thank you very much. 😊

[@adventuresofandy2095]

Thanks for the video and tutorial. I have the same problem, with the shredder only going in reverse, and I was about to dump it until I saw your video. Now its repaired and working again.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad I could help

[@mardinoetling7871]

An easy to follow, well explained video. Thank you for enabling me to fix my shredder.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad to help.

[@salfoyer2411]

Wow you seem really proud of what you do, I respect that

[@divinecricket3450]

great video, I'm going to fix my shredder! Thanks a lot for it.

[@rayomide5642]

Thank for this diy definitely I’ll follow the guide and see if can fix my shredder machine .I love the video.. Thank you 🙏👍👍

[@tippy651]

This fixed my issue, thank you!

[@markmartino9209]

I have a Royal 85x 14405x that functions in reverse but, not in auto. I’ve cleaned and lubricated and still no luck. Any recommendations on what I can do?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Without looking at it, I would think the switch is the issue. Can you select Forward (not Auto) on the switch? That would be one way to continue to use it without replacing the switch. If it wont go forward then it may be an internal sensor issue.

[@markmartino9209]

@@ModernDIYProjects thanks for the reply! Unfortunately, there is no forward option so it has to trigger the sensor. I got the idea watching some other videos to switch it with reverse to bypass the sensor but, I don’t know what wire goes with what.

[@lilarose5512]

How do u remove the shredder from the bottom? I am trying to dismantle a royal1216x shredder.

[@JasonThomas-h4w]

I was so excited then disappointed that you didn’t need to open it. I removed all six screws and it opens a bit but something keeps the top from coming off on that model. Can’t figure it out and may break it more forcing it.

[@douglaskbrown1154]

thank you. very nice. I have trashed 3 paper shredders.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad I could help

[@watcher818]

You need to make a video on how to re grease the shredder gears. So many websites and videos only show the oiling of the mill section and the cutting blades. Synthetic grease or petroleum based? Nylon gears don't like petroleum grease. Disc brake grease works? I know the gears may not need regular maintenance, but in the case of a teardown and total cleaning, we need to clean off the old grease and reapply.

[@valeriexoxo]

Thank you sir. Being that yours was already open how should I open mine without throwing it out of my window? The screws are tiny and set deep. 😢

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Yeah, they purposely make it difficult to open. What you'll need is a set of long reach precision screwdrivers. I have a set of thin and long screwdrivers that I got at Harbor Freight for around $5, and they work great for stuff like this.

[@martiesteyn319]

Opened up a shreddar and 2 fkat iron pieces came out and i can't see where it is suppose to go. Can you please help. Thank you

[@Leena-jt8cm]

I hope u read my message my shredder has stopped working in auto but still work reverse can I still fix it.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

It depends on your skill level. First look inside the unit to make sure that there are no jams, stuck parts, dirty contacts, etc. If the problem is that the switch has gone bad, then it just means you have to swap out the switch for a new one. If you know anything about electrical devices you may be able to jerry rig something to make it work. If you are not comfortable doing this sort of stuff, then it's better to replace the unit.

[@KaveMan812]

I have an old Fellowes PS70-2CD (32170) and I need to replace the rocker-arm switch on the top but I have no idea where to get one. I've looked online and what I found was way to confusing.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Can you adapt a generic rocker switch to work? If not, try contacting Fellowes and see if they will sell you the part. You can also try Ebay. You can find some crazy parts on Ebay. Also keep an eye on your local Craigslist FREE section. If someone is giving away a free broken shredder you can part it out.

[@chipburks748]

I have a NoviTech paper shredder, Model PS-026/B2, that I've had for many years. Motor seems to work properly I think, however, the middle gear lower section (connected to the small axle) is stripped completely (photos available). Problem occurred when friend was using multiple shredders along with my shredder to shred a high volume of home personal documents. Can this gear or all gears be removed and replaced? Where and who would I contact for gear replacement parts? Is it worth the time or should I simply purchase a NEW shredder?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Yes the gears can be replaced. You can look online by your model number and you can find them. Probably not worth the time and money unless it is a very high end model. The cost of the gears and your time is about the same as buying a new machine. Sometimes the gears may not be available separately so you may wind up buying the entire assembly. Too costly in my opinion. These things are disposable these days.

[@909sickle]

Thanks for the good presentation! I have an OfficeMax shredder that only works in reverse. It didn't turn on at all until I replaced the fuse, then the lights came on and the reverse button works. But in auto mode, nothing happens when I press the feed sensor. I checked the feed sensor wires and they do make continuity when the sensor lever is pressed, but nothing else happens. Do you know what the next step to check is after the sensor lever? Thanks a lot

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Check the bucket sensor (that's what I call it). It wont allow the unit to function unless it is properly situated in the bucket or receptacle to prevent user injuries. That may not be working properly.

[@909sickle]

​@@ModernDIYProjects Thank you for the reply. This model does not have a bucket sensor as you describe, but it does have a tray sensor. There are no other wires going to any other sensor. Even when both sensors are engaged, it will not go forward, only in reverse. Does that mean the circuit board is bad or is there another possibility you know of?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

These machines are very simple. Just a couple of sensors to go bad or the circuit board or the switch. If all else is working properly then the circuit board must have gone bad. A bad resistor, diode, anything simple like that but enough to prevent it from working. Even a crack in the soldering joints can cause this. Unless you want to spend a whole lot of time chasing this down, it's probably cheaper to get a new one. Walmart has machines as low as $20.

[@909sickle]

@@ModernDIYProjects This is one of the bigger $100 machines. But this is more about learning to fix electronics than cost-savings for me. Perhaps I will try to remove the board inspect the back side for any signs of damage. Thanks again

[@lilsoccermom3]

I put too much paper through at once & caused a paper jam, which stopped the machine. The power button won't even come on now. Any solutions?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Probably overloaded and blew the internal fuse. You have to track that down and replace it.

[@MrHoracio56]

Thanks!

[@atilathesonofdanubius4277]

You left out putting the other switch in, which is the most difficult thing. I couldn't find how to put it back in place, so I taped it shut/closed and left it inside and it works fine.

[@marciawelenson3348]

Thank you, I was about to throw out my shredder, but after cleaning out the dust it is working again, and I will start oiling it.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Glad it helped

[@AnnoyingNewslettersPage6]

Failing that, you still end up with a spare paper bin. I got frustrated with attempting to fix mine, but I've just been shredding the paper by hand until I get around to tearing mine apart again. It all ends up in my compost tumbler, so it doesn't *_have_* to be the confetti, just smaller chunks.

[@Blackstarddl]

Easy Fix, the best kind!

[@garthcasagrande9387]

Looking

[@Bedoubleu]

Just found this video after sitting here trying to shred a mountain of papers by hand. I never threw my shredder away that stopped working a few years ago. I had only had it for like 6 months and it stopped working. I paid about $250 for it so have been trying to find a repair person to fix it. It's an Ativa AT-MC1010S. Paper got stuck in feeder and it doesn't do anything in forward or reverse. Does this mean that it is shot? Do you know anything about this model cause I can't even see where to take the shredder part off of the container. Can't seem to find anybody in my area to work on shredders.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

You won't find anyone to fix this for you. These items are disposable these days. There is no money for the technician in repairing it. If the unit does not power on, then the problem may be that it has an internal fuse that has blown and that is why it wont do anything. If it powers on but wont move then it is a serious jam that takes too much torque to move and it can't do it. You have to manually remove the jam. To take it apart you have to turn it over and there are probably some screws on the underside that need to be removed.

[@Bedoubleu]

@@ModernDIYProjects Thank you for the information. I will try the troubleshooting steps that you suggested before buying another one.

[@gloriapadilla4765]

The shredder has thick paper lodged in and won’t go forward or reverse. I opened it and can’t seem to dislodge it. Please advice me. Thank you

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Soften up the paper by soaking it with WD-40. That will make it easier to pull out.

[@gloriapadilla4765]

@@ModernDIYProjects another KZbin video said not to use WD40 because shredder will catch fire.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Please don't be fooled by folks that don't have a clue what they are talking about. WD-40 will only (Maybe) catch fire if you spray it into the motor while it is plugged in and running (actively shredding). It will NOT catch fire if you use it as a lubricant and there is no power going to the unit. It will NOT catch fire if you use it to soften the paper and then remove the paper chunks. YT is full of people that say things with NO basis in fact. I would NEVER suggest something that would get you hurt!

[@gloriapadilla4765]

@@ModernDIYProjects thank you

[@VicVelez-tf8rd]

Shredding wax paper was suggested as a way to lubricate it, neater (than smeared oil) and economical.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Yea, but I am afraid any wax that doesn't act as a lubricant can build up and cause clogging. Wax does become hard and crusty where oil will not.

[@Mona-fd5kf]

Thank you, All better now.

[@degen_dude3159]

Question: Can I put water through to fix it

[@sharoncourt75]

I wonde if i can put w240 in the paper then shreded it, mine is starting to stop working

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Sure. Any type of lubricant will do. Like I mentioned, even cooking oil will work.

[@erik9358]

Hello I have a Pen+Gear shredder , was working fine till today . When I put it on “forward” it starts then stops for half a second , then again it starts then does everything again continuously. Reverse works fine. One thing I noticed is that when I turn it off from reverse , it turns off quickly. I think it might be the motor . It’s not even a year old

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Yeah, reliability is not that great these days. Did you put a lot of big stuff through it like card stock, many sheets together or credit cards? That can lead to early wear of the motor even though they say it can handle it. Try taking it apart and see if anything is obviously amiss inside the case. Like a loose connector or dirty motor, clogged up sensor, etc.

[@randyriggs5463]

I accidentally put a nickel down and it jammed. It is able to go in reverse and neutral. I took it apart, and everything seems fine. It just won't go in reverse. Any thoughts?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

How do you know it will go in reverse if you just said it wont go in reverse? Does it move, make noise, do anything?

[@randyriggs5463]

@@ModernDIYProjects I am sorry about that one. I meant that I can get it to go in reverse and neutral but not forward. The lights all come on,but it won't go forward. I took it apart but couldn't find anything wrong with it. I am running out of things to check out.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

I see, ok, here are a few things to check out. * Make sure there isn't a jam somewhere. Try moving it forward manually first to see if the gears are free and will move. * Make sure there isn't a sensor that needs to be tripped for it to go forward. Sometimes there is a safety switch that the unit has to be placed in the receptacle (trash can) for it to work. Also the case needs to be closed fully to close the circuit and allow it to work. * Make sure it hasn't jumped a gear, or stripped the gear. This may also cause it to not move, but may make noises with no results. See if any of that helps.

[@randyriggs5463]

@@ModernDIYProjects Thanks. Will give it a try.

[@yourblood5005]

I appreciate that, bro!! Big help.

[@albertlsawvel8530]

My paper Shredder doesn't what to turn on going forward it does go backwards. What is the problem.?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Faulty switch, bad sensor, jammed gears preventing forward rotation, etc.

[@red2965]

So how do you save the dull blades😂

[@alvarofredericoramospompei1119]

I was unable to place the sensor inside the device. The one that only works if placed in the container that collects the fragments

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Yeah that can be a tricky one. One solution is to simply tape it in the ON position and simple let it hang out of the container. It will think it is in the container that way.

[@lamirada90638]

Shredded a lot of sticker address labels now it doesn't work... What can I do?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Maybe the glue in the stickers gummed up the blades. Try alcohol or some solvent to break them free. If the glue caused the motor to work too hard while shredding due to higher resistance of the glue it could have been overheated and failed. Hard to say.

[@kevin34ct]

I'm trying to figure out how to get that microswitch reinstalled. You didn't show me.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

I didn't show it because each unit will be different. Try to reinstall the best you can but if you can't what I have seen people do is to tape it in the ON position and allow it to dangle outside the bucket. It will think it is in the bucket that way.

[@kevin34ct]

@@ModernDIYProjects Yes I put tape on it and stuffed it inside. It's not a very good setup. I still want the safety feature, so I will get a different switch and rig it to work the same way.

[@rcknicholson]

would a penny jam it up?

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Absolutely! The biggest thing you can put through some shredders is a credit card. Anything thicker or stronger and BAM!!!! Bad News!!!

[@mannygi1977]

You sound like the inventor dad from Gremlins.

[@ModernDIYProjects]

😁 😁 😁 , Rand Peltzer. He was a well known actor back in the day. Yeah I saw that movie when I was a kid.

[@JohnDoe-dh4fi]

my problem is the paper goes through shredder and doesn't cut all the way through the paper

[@ModernDIYProjects]

The problem could be one of these: The blades are dirty and gummed up. The blades are dull or too many sheets at one time going through. You can clean the blades the way I showed and you can reduce the amount of sheets you put through. If dull then just get a new shredder.

[@JohnDoe-dh4fi]

@@ModernDIYProjects opened it up some of the gears teeth are broken so that explains the knocking i hear when the paper go's threw the shredder so looks like time for a new shredder i had it for 15 years so i got my money worth out of it

[@red2965]

Oil collects dust😂😂😂

[@vanessahassell309]

My light won't come on

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Problem with the switch or the LED burned out. As long as it still works, don't worry about it.

[@solitaire5142]

I just sent some good karma your way :)

[@ModernDIYProjects]

Thanks, I can always use that. ;)

[@wizardmaster6639]

YESSSS -- THUMB UP # 666 ..