8130e printer - original ink cartridges cannot be loaded - won't fit

[GEinCO]

8130e printer - original ink cartridges cannot be loaded - won't fit

[Raj_05]

Hi @GEinCO,

 Welcome to HP Support Community.
 
Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.
 

If you're experiencing issues with fitting original ink cartridges into your HP OfficeJet Pro 8130e All-in-One printer, here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

1. Verify Cartridge Compatibility:

   • Ensure you have the correct cartridges for the HP OfficeJet Pro 8130e All-in-One model. Check the printer manual or HP's website to confirm the compatibility of the cartridge model numbers.

2. Inspect Cartridge Packaging:

   • Double-check that the cartridges are genuine HP products and not third-party or refilled versions, which might have slight variations in size or shape.

3. Remove Protective Tape:

   • Make sure any protective tape or plastic covers have been removed from the cartridges before attempting to install them.

4. Check Cartridge Orientation:

   • Confirm that the cartridges are being inserted in the correct orientation. The label should face upward, and the gold contact points should be facing into the printer.

5. Reinstall Cartridges:

   • Remove and reinsert the cartridges. Push them gently but firmly until they click into place. Ensure the cartridge door is fully open to allow proper installation.

6. Inspect Cartridge Slot:

   • Examine the cartridge slot for any obstructions or protective materials that might have been left from the packaging.

7. Printer Reset:

   • Perform a printer reset by turning it off, unplugging it for a few minutes, and then turning it back on. This can sometimes resolve recognition issues.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully install the ink cartridges in your HP OfficeJet Pro 8130e All-in-One printer.

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. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping! 

[GEinCO]

Hello Raj_05,

I appreciate your reply.  These are the original ink cartridges that come with the brand new printer.   It was not a cartridge recognition issue, it was a physical/mechanical issue.   So cycling the power would have not helped.

When one of these is inserted, a tab on the far edge of the cartridge has to fit into a small opening in the back of the compartment.   Each cartridge has an opening to line it up.   It looks like an inverted T, with the slot pointing up.  I discovered that they are cut slightly different.   All cartridges would slide and load nicely in the first slot, even though it is just for the one color.   The other little openings were slightly too small.  So the cartridge would not slide in and lock, and was far from the catch at the near end to engage.

I though the printer was going to be a total loss, as the warranty expired before I even unboxed it.   So I kept trying to force those cartridges into the alignment slots.  I think it finally wore down the plastic on either the cartridges or the housing, and they finally went in.   Then I was able to snap them in place and proceed to set up the printer.   Now it prints fine.

But it seems to be a manufacturing defect - the little holes in back where the cartridge tab fits in have been cut too small.  There is no tolerance at all.   You have to wear away the edges of the plastic to make those go in.

Thank you for your help.

Regards,

Gary E

[Hawks_Eye]

Thanks for replying @GEinCO 

Raj_05 is away for now; however, I'm Hawks_Eye, and I'll be happy to help you out!

Thank you for sharing such a detailed and thoughtful follow-up. I’m really sorry you had to go through that frustrating experience—especially with a brand-new HP OfficeJet Pro 8130e and original cartridges. You’ve done everything right by carefully inspecting the alignment and persevering through the installation.

What you described—where the cartridge tabs wouldn’t align with the inverted T-shaped slots due to tight tolerances—suggests a rare mechanical fitment issue. While it’s reassuring that the printer is now working and printing well, I completely understand how concerning it must have been to feel like the printer was unusable right out of the box.

For others who may face a similar cartridge fit issue:

Here’s a refined checklist based on your experience:

• Confirm cartridge model: The HP OfficeJet Pro 8130e uses HP 910 or 910XL cartridges. Always verify the part numbers on the box and cartridge label.
• Inspect alignment tabs: Each cartridge has a small tab that must fit into a matching slot in the printhead. These slots may be tight on first use.
• Check for obstructions: Look for any leftover packaging material or burrs inside the cartridge slot.
• Insert gently but firmly: Apply even pressure without forcing. If resistance is high, inspect the slot and cartridge tab for slight mismatches.
• Avoid modifying parts: If the cartridge won’t fit after careful alignment, avoid forcing it. Instead, try a different cartridge from the same set or contact HP support for guidance.

If you ever need to revisit this or help someone else with the same printer, you can refer to the HP OfficeJet Pro 8130e Setup Guide for step-by-step visuals.

You’ve done a fantastic job troubleshooting this on your own. If you ever need help with ink recognition, print quality, or setup tips, I’ll be here to support you.

Regards,

Hawks_Eye