Printer cuts off top of page

[theinse57]

Product: HP 7740

My printer was working fine last week now all of a sudden it is cutting off the top of the page when printing.  I have done multiple resets, cleaned the feeder and reinstalled the drivers and the problem seems to be getting worse.  It happens with plain paper and cardstock.  At first it was simply the top margin getting cut off resulting in the bottom margin being 2 inches, now each time i try to remedy the problem, it cuts more off the top.  I have trying holding the paper as it feeds pushing slightly thinking it is not grabbing it right away but it seems to grab it instantly and pull through.  Not sure what else to do. I do not want to get a new printer but i am a teacher and NEED my printer to work properly. This is an essential part of our day-to-day operations. If HP can't fix this problem NOW, HP will lose a lot of business. 

[Max3Aj]

Hi @theinse57,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

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

It sounds like your HP OfficeJet Pro 7740 might be experiencing an issue with paper alignment, sensor calibration, or firmware settings. Since you’ve already tried resets, cleaning, and reinstalling the drivers, here are some additional troubleshooting steps.

Check and Adjust Paper Size Settings

• Go to Printer Properties on your computer.
• Ensure the paper size matches the size you are using (Letter, A4, Legal, etc.).
• Verify the scaling settings – ensure "Fit to Page" or "Actual Size" is selected.
• Try printing from different software applications (Word, PDF reader, etc.).

Perform a Printer Alignment

• On the printer’s control panel, navigate to:
  • Setup > Printer Maintenance > Align Printer.
• Follow the on-screen steps and print the alignment page.

Update Firmware

• Check if there’s a firmware update available:
  • Go to HP Support and download the latest firmware for your printer.
  • Install it and restart the printer.

Manually Clean the Paper Feed Rollers

If the rollers are dirty or worn, they may not be gripping the paper evenly:

• Power off the printer and unplug it.
• Open the rear access panel and locate the rollers.
• Use a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with water to clean the rollers.
• Allow them to dry completely before plugging the printer back in.

Perform a Hard Reset

1. Turn off the printer.
2. Unplug it from the power source for 5 minutes.
3. Press and hold the power button for 30 seconds (while unplugged).
4. Plug the printer back in and restart it.

[Max3Aj]

Test a Different Paper Source

• Try printing from Tray 2 (if available).
• Use a different paper type (thinner or thicker paper may affect grip).

Factory Reset (Last Resort)

If none of the above steps help:

• On the printer control panel, go to:
  • Setup > Printer Maintenance > Restore Factory Defaults.

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!

Max3Aj

HP Support