How to fix foam sponge

[autolycus1]

A couple of weeks ago my printer made a lot of noise and 'spat out' a sticky-backed piece of foam sponge about 20mmx10mmx5mm with the sheet it had printed. It still seems to be working fine - without any undue noise - although since yesterday it doesn't want to turn off. Are these two symptoms related? Is it a DIY job to stick back the sponge? Any instructions on how to do it?

Any help most gratefully received.

[Repairatrooper]

Any chance you still have the ejected piece and can post a picture of it?

[autolycus1]

Thanks for the reply. Here's a picture with rough dimensions.

[autolycus1]

I uploaded the picture as requested. Through the front opening i can see a similar sponge still in place to the far right, so it's not that one that has popped out. Has anyone an idea how to fix this? Just some basic instruction on how to remove the outer covering(s) to access the workings might be helpful. Thanks.

[Repairatrooper]

I would look on the left hand side of the carriage to see if there is a spot. It looks like it might be a wiper sponge that traps excess ink, or it could be a buffer to keep case parts from squeaking.

[autolycus1]

I  think both your speculations make sense, certainly the one that is still there on the right looks to me like a buffer.

 I had another close look on the far left (where the heads 'park') and there is a similar sponge - just visible and sited below the printheads - that likely has a wiping function. I found a video on youtube that seems to show two sponges on that side, although unfortunately it's not very clear. It also shows how to take the top of the case off, so i'll take a close look when i get a chance and let you know how if i'm still stuck.