Hi @LorraineP1,
Welcome to HP Support Community.
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
If you're dealing with a "Carriage is Stalled" error on your HP printer and have ruled out basic issues like paper jams and obstructions, the steps you've outlined are quite thorough. Here's a recap of your guide with a bit of added detail to ensure clarity and effectiveness:
Clean the Horizontal Encoder Strip:
- Turn off the printer.
- Locate the horizontal encoder strip (a thin, transparent strip running behind the carriage).
- Use a soft tissue paper and a small amount of water to gently clean the strip. Avoid using alcohol as it can damage the strip.
Clean the Rotary Encoder Disc and Optical Sensors:
- Turn off the printer.
- Remove the rotary encoder disc (found on the left side of the carriage).
- Clean the disc with a soft tissue paper and water.
- Gently clean the optical sensors (without water) to remove any dust or debris.
- Reinstall the encoder disc.
Clean the Printheads:
- Turn off the printer.
- Remove the printheads.
- Use a dry tissue paper to gently clean the printheads. Be careful not to damage the delicate parts.
Lubricate the Crossbeam:
- Turn off the printer.
- Locate the crossbeam (the shiny rod where the carriage moves).
- Apply a small amount of gun oil (thin oil) to the crossbeam.
- Manually slide the carriage left and right to ensure it moves smoothly. If it feels sticky or requires excessive force, there might be a mechanical issue.
Power Reset:
- Turn on the printer.
- Unplug the power cable while the printer is on.
- Let the printer rest for 24 hours.
- Plug the power cable back in and turn the printer on.
Clean the Service Station:
- Turn off the printer.
- Disassemble the printer to access the service station (where the printheads rest when not in use).
- Clean any ink or debris from the service station components.
Service the Carriage:
I hope this helps.
Take care and have a good day.
Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.
Rachel571
HP Support