Paper tray for HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e does not snug up to paper for 8.5x11

[bhacks123]

Wow, I just purchased and setup and thought I was missing something with the paper tray not having a backstop for 8.5x11.   I noticed you could press the tab on bottom to allow you compact tray to the lines marked as 8.5x11, but there is nothing that locks it into place.   After reading a couple of other threads on this forum, it looks like that a known issue.   What a disappointment compared to the 8600 I just replaced.   I guess I have to take it back and shop for a different brand.

[Max3Aj]

@bhacks123, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 
This is a common point of confusion with the HP OfficeJet Pro 9125e paper tray design. Here’s what’s going on and how to handle it:

✅ The Tray Adjustment Mechanism

The paper length guide (at the back of the tray) does adjust for 8.5x11" (Letter) paper, but unlike some older HP printers, it doesn’t click or lock firmly into place in an obvious way. The small tab on the bottom (which you found—good catch!) is meant to release the slider so you can move the backstop, but once you slide it to the correct marking (8.5x11), it relies on friction rather than a locking notch to hold it.

🔍 What You Can Do

1. Adjust the Tray: Make sure to press the tab while sliding, then line it up precisely with the 8.5x11 mark.
2. Load Paper Firmly: After aligning, push the paper in firmly, and adjust the side guides so they hold the paper snugly.
3. Try a Thicker Stack: If the tray still feels too loose or the paper doesn't stay aligned, try loading 20–30 sheets at once; some trays behave better with a thicker stack.
4. Check for Packing Materials: Look underneath the tray for any packing materials or small plastic clips that may still be attached from shipping.

🧩 Common Misunderstanding

The tray doesn’t “lock” in the conventional sense—it uses resistance and the pressure from the paper stack and side guides to stay aligned. It can feel “loose,” but if the guides are correctly placed, it will feed properly.
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Select "Yes" on the bottom left to say “Thanks” for helping! 

Max3Aj

HP Support