I need a basket for a perfectly good MX100 shredder (lost in a move).

Paper Shredder Parts Division of Document Dynamix

that looks like something that couls be rigged out of a couple metal straps . good enough to work anyway

Brian, a lot of shredders have a microswitch in the bottom of the unit that has to be activated by a tab on the basket. One possibility is that the tab has broken off, which means that you would need a new basket, or there is a possibility that the shredder head is on the basket backwards and is not connecting with the tab. Hope this helps.

From your manual!

In case of a paper jam , which may occur if the shredder is pushed beyond its specified capabilities, press the control switch to the off [O] position and empty the basket if full. Then:
1) Press and hold control switch in reverse [R] position and attempt to back paper out of shredder.
2) If shredder jams in reverse mode, press control switch to automatic [I] position and attempt to continue shredding operation.
3) If shredder jams again, alternate control switch slowly between reverse [R] and automatic [I] positions to attempt to move jammed paper completely through shredder.
If you are unable to clear the jam using this method, turn off and unplug the shredder; remove the wastebasket from cabinet and carefully remove any paper extending below the cutting cylinders; empty the waste basket; insert waste basket and repeat jam clearing procedure.

Give Royal a call at 1-800-524-0799 for parts.

I had this same problem. This is what I did to fix it.

When I went to ShredCare.com (the recommended web site for technical support of this particular shredder), I read that 'Most models of shredders have a safety interlock switch that is activated by the basket.' Upon looking closely at my basket and the shredder, I found this safetly interlock switch and made sure to align it with the proper position within the basket. There is only ONE way to place the shredder on the basket and have this safety interlock switch activated. The switch is located on the underside of the shredder. Align this switch with the ridge on the inside of the basket. Listen carefully and you will hear the switch 'click' when in the right position. Mine is very touchy. I've even had to press in on the side of the basket while shredding to make sure that the ridge and the switch are making contact.

Hope this helps!

Make sure that the shredder is locked down in its case by pushing down on all 4 corners.
Since the basket slides forward to empty it, I would think the safety switch is located in the front but not positive since I don't have a unit right in front of me.
Check to see if you see a slot in the top part of the shredder unit. Usually the basket has a piece of plastic that will line up with the slot when the basket is in place (Safety switch) so that the top part of the shredder knows that the basket is in place.

Look around with a flashlight, If you are going to feel around with your hand, PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU UNPLUG the shredder just to be safe.

Hope this helps.
Good luck.
Mac =)

ok " if the ready light did not come on it's telling you that there is no power sound like the plug in transformer is no good .

you can check that transformer , with a multimeter, see if you have the right voltage.

I am not sure but i suggest check for the manufacturer via the internet

Pull the top of the basket toward you and the top of it should swing out. Then you can lift the basket up and out once the top of the basket is partly open. Hope this helps. Have a good day. Mac =)