How do I remove the top panel on a Fellowes paper shredder?
Answer
Unplug the shredder first. Look for screws under labels, plastic plugs, or on the underside near the switch side, remove every fastener, then lift the head straight up. A single missed screw is the usual reason the housing will not separate.
Before you start: stop right away if…
- Always unplug a shredder before removing panels. Sharp cutters can cause serious injury even when the motor is off.
Follow these steps
Unplug the shredder
Turn the shredder off and unplug it from the wall. Do not service the head while it is powered.
You should see: The shredder has no power and the cutters are not running.
Find hidden screws on the head housing
Check under any small label or plastic plug on the head housing, especially near the switch side, and inspect the underside where the head meets the bin. Remove every screw you find.
You should see: All visible and hidden fasteners that hold the head are removed.
Lift the top panel straight up
With fasteners out, lift the head or top panel straight up. If it still binds, recheck for one remaining screw rather than prying hard on the cutter area.
You should see: The top separates from the bin so you can clear paper or access the jam.
Clear the jam and reassemble
Remove jammed paper with tweezers or pliers—never bare fingers near the cutters—then reseat the head and reinstall every screw before plugging the shredder back in.
You should see: The shredder is reassembled, plugs in safely, and feeds paper again.
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Extra tips
What to look for: Screws under rubber feet, labels, or plastic caps; seams between head and bin; model number on the back for the correct manual diagram.
Before you change anything: Unplug the shredder and wait for moving parts to stop. Wear cut-resistant gloves; shredder cutters stay sharp even when off. Keep track of every screw you remove.