Photo tray jammed

[JohnUSNA59]

Have followed the directions many, many times--too many to count with the same result. Printer essentially useless. Can the photo tray be removed entirely to correct the problem? If so how? Seems easily removed on the right side unable to release on the left.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @JohnUSNA59 

Welcome to the HP Support Community!

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It sounds like you've been through a frustrating cycle with this issue. While the photo tray on most HP printers isn't designed to be fully removed, there are a few steps you can try to release it if it's stuck:

1. Check for Obstructions

• Turn off the printer and unplug it.
• Remove the output tray to get better access.
• Look for any jammed paper or debris blocking the tray.

 

2. Try a Firm but Gentle Pull

• The right side may feel loose, but the left side often has a locking mechanism.
• Try wiggling the tray gently while pulling it toward you.
• If it doesn’t budge, avoid forcing it to prevent damage.

 

3. Reset the Printer

• Unplug the printer for 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on.
• Sometimes, a reset can reposition the tray automatically.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[JohnUSNA59]

While I greatly appreciate your suggestions you are not understanding my problem. This is essentially a brand new printer. I have only been able to make a half dozen or so copies since receipt. There is nothing obstructed, insides look as they should brand new. It has a dust cover. I have checked the photo tray multiple times. It is free to move back and forth, and the paper size guides also move freely. Again, there are no obstructions, everything moves freely. 

During start, the photo tray can be observed moving in and out. The printer then apparently attempts to determine whether there is paper in the photo tray. A solenoid clicks--loudly--then the clicks resume, very rapid and loud fashion for probably ten seconds or so. Message: "Photo Tray Blocked." Have tried starting with and without photo paper, same results.

Basically, the photo tray, which I will never use, is preventing me from using the printer.

Just as soon take the photo tray out altogether if that will solve the problem.

Thank you,

John

[JohnUSNA59]

Please read what I'm describing. The printer is essentially new; there are no obstructions. Everything moves freely.  

Prior to starting the photo tray can be moved in and out manually with no impediments. Sizing arms likewise move in and out easily--no impediments. Everything moves freely. Repeat, there are no obstructions, everything you mention moves freely.

When the printer is turned on the photo tray drives in and then out--no problem. Later it drives in again and apparently goes through a cycle checking photo paper size. There is a click as the solenoid engages to actuate the sizing arms. A few seconds later a second click followed by a chatter of clicks as the photo paper size solenoid rapidly engages the size arms. I've tried with and without photo paper--same result.

Problem is clearly in the start routine for the photo tray. Even though they are free and moving, the system is not sensing the size arms properly.

Have tried unplugging--no change. 

I would like to remove the photo tray completely if that will bypass the problem. Right now, this printer is totally unusable and has been for the six months sinch purchase. If this can't be resolved, the printer will go to the electronics recycle in two weeks.

 Thank you for your effort to get this resolved,

John

[Hawks_Eye]

@JohnUSNA59 

Thanks for replying.

We sincerely thank you for your patience and co-operation during this troubleshooting process.

I'm sending you a private message to guide you on the next steps.

To access it, click the private message icon in the upper-right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your name.

If this resolves your issue, kindly mark this post as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" if it was helpful.

Take care and have a great day!

Regards,

Hawks_Eye

[JohnUSNA59]

Removed the photo tray--now get the message photo tray is blocked.

I'm at the end of my patience. If this can't be resolved it will go into the electronic recycle--and I'll never purchase another HP product. And will advise others as well!

[JohnUSNA59]

Can't locate the message.

[JohnUSNA59]

Well you certainly solved that! Now I'm blocked completely by a RED screen that states: Do not have sufficient privileges to perform this action...

Printer goes in the junk. When I cool down, I'm going to write the worst review imaginable regarding this horrible product!

Must admit that I have gone from a lifetime admirer of HP, including the time when I was competing, to questioning where did such a fine company go so wrong.