Printer Ink Carriage is locked in place and won't move

[jeffersonm1]

HP OfficeJet Pro 6978

My Printer Ink Carriage is locked in place and won't move. Stuck on the right side and won't even slide manually. I've done all the rebooting and checking for paper jams. I think it could possibly be the PFG Gear?

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @jeffersonm1,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

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

I understand the ink carriage in your HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 printer is stuck and won't move, there are a few steps you can try to troubleshoot the issue:

• Power Cycle: Turn off the printer, unplug it from the power source, and wait for a few minutes. Then, plug it back in and turn it on again. Sometimes, a simple power cycle can reset the printer and resolve the issue.
• Check for Paper Jams: Even if you've already checked for paper jams, it's worth doing it again. Open the printer cover and check for any bits of paper or debris that might be obstructing the ink carriage's movement. Use a flashlight to get a good look inside the printer.
• Manually Move the Carriage: If the carriage is stuck, try gently moving it manually. Be very careful not to force it, as you could damage the printer further. If it won't budge, don't push it too hard.
• Inspect for Obstructions: Sometimes, small objects or debris can get lodged in the printer mechanism, preventing the carriage from moving. Carefully inspect the printer's interior for any foreign objects and remove them if found.
• PFG Gear Inspection: The PFG (Priming and Capping) gear is a crucial component of the printer mechanism. If you suspect it's the issue, you might need to disassemble the printer partially to access it. However, this should be done with caution and preferably by someone with experience in printer repair.

Refer to this document:  HP OfficeJet Pro 6978 All-in-One Printer User manual 

HP Printers - Carriage jam or E3 error
 

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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