The MARK 5 Die-Cutting Machine and retired MARK IV Machine require periodic replacement of the roller and die tray. These items last about one year with average use. With heavy use, they may need to be replaced more often. You will know the die tray needs to be replaced when it does not lay flat on a table, if tray center bows in either direction or when you are not able to cut as many layers as expected. You may even hear a "popping" noise when cutting.

To extend the life of the die tray, move dies to different locations each time you cut so one corner of the die is always touching a side of the tray. Also make sure to keep scraps of paper and chipboard out of the die tray. Rolling a die through while it is on top of scrap material, or purposely shimming under a die, causes the blades to push through back of die.