Hi jtanddolly,

Locate the cause of the problem using the Pitch Configuration Chart.

1. Click “Tools“ to display the Chart Print page.
2. Click the Pitch Configuration Chart button. The Pitch Configuration Chart is printed.
3. Compare the pitch of the color spots on your output with that on the Pitch Configuration Chart.
4. If the issue persists, reseat the PHD (Print Head Device) unit if you have a spare one.
5. After you reseat the PHD unit, click “Tools” to display the Chart Print page.
6. Click the Pitch Configuration Chart button to print.

Check the quality of the print and post the results.

Where can I find "tools"?

Also, I don't have a spare PHD...what is that and is it normal to have a spare?

Hi jtanddolly,

In case you have a second Dell printer, you can remove the PHD from that and install it on this printer.

Refer the topic "Understanding the Tool Box Menus" and “Print Quality Problems” in this link: http://bit.ly/YCjJlj

Please let me know if you need any further help.

I finally figured out how to run a pitch configuration chart.  The blue and yellow pages printed just fine...it was the magenta that is printing spotty.  What do I need to do?  

Hi jtanddolly,

As the problem is with the magenta color, try changing the Magenta toner and if the issue persists even after replacing the toner, the PHD needs to be replaced.

Part# for magenta toner “9M2WC”

Part# for PHD (Print Head Device) unit “KGR81”

I suggest you to contact Dell Spare Parts sales team @ 1-800-372-3355 to purchase the Right part.

Please reply for further help.

I just spent nearly $90 to replace the magenta toner even though it was full and I'm still having the same problem.  First, I have had this printer for a little over a year but have maybe made 250 copies with it so I have barely used it.  

If the magenta is the only color that is having problems why would I need to replace the PHD?  I don't want to spend $188 on a new item that may not fix the problem after I just spent $90 on toner which wasn't the problem.

I'm so frustrated with this printer!  I got it so that I could use it for my party printables company and I can't use cardstock with this printer as it curls the paper.  So I have been very limited in what I can use it for.  I was able to use it for candy wrappers but now with the ink problem I'm not able to use it.

Hi jtanddolly,

I can understand electronic devices can create confusion and frustration when they do not work the way they are designed for.

After replacing the Magenta toner, did you run Pitch configuration test on it? If not, please run it.

If the issue persists, as I mentioned earlier the problem should be with the PHD. Considering the cost of the PHD, I would recommend going for a new printer.