laser jet 1020 paper jam, standard approach already tried scraps caught in the mechanism

[rab28]

The printer was outputting a document when it jammed, The paper was caught diagonally in the path and was already torn when I removed the toner cartridge. I tried to remove the remainder of the paper but came apart in pieces. I tried various things but there remains a small wad of paper in the center of the printer under the forward most bar. We have tried every which way to get it out but have had no success. Wee wondered whether we could fire up the printer and try printing something and maybe it would drive the paper wad out of the path? Any suggestions would be gratefully accepted. We like our little printer and hope it can be saved.

[Max3Aj]

@rab28, Welcome to HP Support Community. 

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you. 

Since there is still a wad of paper stuck inside, trying to print might cause further damage, such as tearing the paper further, damaging the rollers, or overheating components.

Steps to Remove the Stuck Paper:

Turn Off and Unplug the Printer – This ensures safety and prevents further damage.

Remove the Toner Cartridge – If you haven’t already, take it out to get a better view inside.

Use a Flashlight – Shine a light inside to locate the exact position of the paper wad.

Use Tweezers or Needle-Nose Pliers – Gently grip and pull the paper out if accessible. Be careful not to damage any internal components.
 

Roller Check:

If you can see part of the paper in the rollers, manually rotate the rollers (by hand, in the direction of normal paper movement) to help free it.

Never force it backward, as this can cause misalignment.

Compressed Air or Thin Card Method:

Try using a can of compressed air to blow out small fragments.

Insert a stiff but flexible card (like an old credit card) into the paper path and try to push the paper out.

Rear Cover or Access Panel – Some models have a rear access door. Open it to check for paper fragments.

Reset the Printer – Once you’ve removed the paper, reinstall the toner, close everything, and plug the printer back in.
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day. 

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Max3Aj

HP Support