OfficeJet 8020 Starts specialty paper jobs too early

[Bizzy247]

I have an 8020 all in one that in the past has worked well for all sorts of specialty prints, like cards, labels, envelopes, etc. But a few months ago started feeding pretty much any specialty job too late, and the design would partially print inside the paper, cutting off the first couple inches or more of the print job. This ink smears on the back on the paper!  I have checked the paper weights, settings on the printer and the printer software on the computer AND the program I'm printing from. I have checked drivers and even uninstalled and reinstalled the printer. No luck.

It does fine with normal jobs on regular paper, and is mostly ok with things that are letter size, like label sheets.  But sometimes it's cut these off as well. 

It seems to often do OK with plain photo paper, sometimes, but anything heavier, even if it's within the specifications, doesn't feed properly!  I have been fighting this issue since December when I was gearing up for a christmas card print!

[The_Fossette]

@Bizzy247

I reviewed your post and I understand you are facing issues printing card stocks.

Don’t worry, I assure you I will try my best to get this sorted.

I recommend you follow the below steps and check if it helps.

Step 1: Check the paper, and then reload it

Paper feed issues might result from using ripped, dusty, curled, wrinkled, or bent paper. The quality of the paper can also make a difference. Use these guidelines to help avoid the issue.

• Use only good quality paper that meets printer specifications.

• Store all paper in a dry, cool place. Paper feed issues occur more often in humid environments.

• Do not print on paper that is already printed. The dampness of the ink can cause the paper to stick together.

• Wait for the printer to complete a job or to display a Load Paper in Tray message before you load more paper.

Before you load paper in the input tray, make sure the paper is neatly stacked and in good condition, and the paper path and tray are free from obstructions.

1. Pull out the input tray, and then remove any paper from the input tray.

2. Remove any severely bent, wrinkled, or torn paper from the stack.

3. Check for obstructions inside the input tray. Make sure nothing blocks the paper from engaging with the rollers. Even small pieces of paper can cause paper feed issues.

4. With both hands, hold the stack of paper, and then tap the bottom edge of the stack on a flat surface so that the stack is even on all sides.

5. Insert the stack of paper into the input tray.

6. Push the stack of paper toward the rear of the input tray until the paper stops, and then slide the paper guides until they lightly rest against the edges of the paper.

   

7. Push the input tray forward until it snaps into place.

8. The control panel displays the paper size loaded.

   • If the paper size loaded does not match what is displayed, select the paper tray, select your paper size and type, and then touch Done.

   • If the paper size is correct, touch OK.

Try to print. If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Step 2: Clean the paper tray rollers under the printer

Dust, paper fiber, and other debris might accumulate on the paper tray rollers and cause paper jams and paper feed issues. Clean the rollers underneath the printer, and then try to print again.

1. Turn off the printer, and then disconnect the power cord and any other cables.

      WARNING: 

   You must disconnect the power cord before reaching inside the printer to avoid risk of injuries or electric shock.

2. Pull out the paper tray or trays, and then set them aside.

3. Carefully lift the printer and set it on its side to expose the paper rollers underneath the printer.

   

4. Lightly dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water, and then squeeze any excess liquid from the cloth.

5. Clean the rollers with the damp cloth.

6. Allow the rollers to dry completely (approximately 10 minutes).

7. Set the printer upright.

8. Reinsert the paper tray or trays.

Try to print. If the issue persists, continue to the next step.

Step 3: Clean the paper feed rollers and duplexing rollers

Clean the paper feed rollers inside the ink cartridge access area, and the duplexing rollers behind the ink cartridge access area, and then try to print again.

1. Turn off the printer, and then disconnect the power cord and any other cables.

      WARNING: 

   You must disconnect the power cord before reaching inside the printer to avoid risk of injuries or electric shock.

2. Open the front door, and then lift the ink cartridge access door.

   

3. Lightly dampen a lint-free cloth with distilled water, and then squeeze any excess liquid from the cloth.

4. Clean all visible rollers with the damp cloth.

   

5. Remove the paper path cover, and then clean the duplexing rollers under the cover with the damp cloth.

   

6. Allow the rollers to dry completely (approximately 10 minutes).

7. Reinsert the paper path cover until it snaps into place.

8. Close the ink cartridge access door, and then close the front door.

   

9. Reconnect the power cord and any other cables to the rear of the printer, and then turn on the printer.

10. Try to print. If the error persists, continue to the next step.

Let me know how it goes and you have a great day!

P.S: Welcome to the HP Support Community 😊

If you wish to show appreciation for my efforts, mark my post as Accept as Solution. Your feedback counts!

Cheers!

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