This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Martin Yale 1217A folding machine, covering assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The 1217A arrives unassembled, requiring the installation of the feed tray, exit tray, and second fold table. Proper installation of these components is crucial for smooth operation and prevents potential damage and paper jams. Detailed instructions are provided for each step, ensuring a successful setup process. Furthermore, this guide offers advice on proper paper loading techniques to optimize folding accuracy and minimize jams. Understanding the machine's settings and adjustments, as detailed within, is essential for consistent, high-quality results.This guide also addresses common issues, including troubleshooting jammed paper and providing step-by-step solutions for clearing them. It further details essential maintenance procedures, such as cleaning the rollers and lubricating key components to maintain optimal performance and extend the machine's lifespan. Finally, the guide provides instructions on using the bypass lever for folding multiple sheets and offers contact information for additional support from Whitaker Brothers. By following the instructions in this guide, users can effectively assemble, maintain, and troubleshoot their Martin Yale 1217A folding machine.
Pros And Cons
- Neatly stacks folded paper when stacking wheels are set correctly.
- Trays (fold feed tray, exit tray, second fold table) are not pre-installed.
- Can jam; requires removal of top cover and trays to clear jams.
- Fold rollers require cleaning with rubber roller cleaner and cotton cloth (or hot water with dishwashing soap and Scotchbrite pad if extremely dirty) and lubrication.
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Assembly of the Martin Yale 1217A
The Martin Yale 1217A folding machine arrives unassembled. The fold feed tray, exit tray, and second fold table need to be installed. Installing the second fold table involves sliding it over the lowest pins and locking it into place. This ensures smooth operation and prevents damage.

Attaching the feed tray involves a similar process, sliding it onto the pins. Ensure the black feed wheel makes contact with the red retarder (separator roller). Proper contact is crucial for correct paper feeding and folding.

The trays fit securely into designated slots. Correct installation guarantees proper function and prevents paper jams. Ensure trays are aligned properly before securing.

Loading and Setting Up for Folding
Before loading, fan the paper to ensure even distribution. Insert the top sheet at an angle, pushing it under the wheel, and lay it down. All edges should be visible, ensuring proper alignment.

Proper loading prevents jams and ensures that folds are accurate. The top sheet rests against the feed wheel, with subsequent sheets slightly offset. Check the first fold table setting using the provided chart, adjusting it as needed for different paper sizes.

The chart provides settings for various fold types (letter fold uses A and S for 8.5 x 11). Correct settings are essential for consistent and accurate folds. Loosen the knob to adjust, then re-tighten to lock the setting.

Stacking Wheels and Troubleshooting Jams
The stacking wheel settings are determined by the chart. Align the axle of the wheels with the arrow, adjusting the silver block. This ensures neatly stacked output.

If a jam occurs, remove the two screws from the top cover. Lift the cover and remove the feed tray and second fold table. This allows easy access to remove jammed paper.

To clear a jam, manually rotate the rollers or use a screwdriver to help feed the paper back out. Carefully extract the jammed paper, ensuring no further damage occurs.

Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean the fold rollers with a rubber roller cleaner and cotton cloth, or a Scotch-Brite pad for stubborn dirt. Thorough cleaning prevents poor folding performance.

Lubricate the bronze bushings with a drop of light machine oil. There are 10 lubrication points, including rollers and shafts. Regular lubrication extends the machine's lifespan and reduces friction.

Adjust the retarder (sheet separator) as needed. It's located under the feed tray. Slight contact with the black feed wheel is ideal for optimal separation and accurate folding.

Folding Multiple Sheets
For folding multiple sheets (up to three), hold the bypass lever. Insert the sheets while the machine is running or off. This lever facilitates multiple sheet feeding.

The bypass lever enables the machine to handle thicker stacks of paper. Use it for larger projects or when folding thicker materials. Remember to release the lever after each batch.
Contact Whitaker Brothers for additional support via their website. Their support resources can help solve additional problems or provide more thorough explanations.