Epson ET-8550 Showing “Paper Jam” Error and Blocking Access to Menu – Causes and Fixes

Question:
I have an Epson ET-8550 printer, and I’m unable to access the menu because of a paper jam error. As soon as I turn the printer on, it stops and displays “Stopper Jam.”

Answer:

When your Epson ET-8550 shows a “Paper Jam” or “Stopper Jam” message immediately after startup, it typically means the printer has detected an obstruction in the paper path before it completes its initialization. Because this happens during startup, the printer’s firmware locks out menu access until the issue is cleared.

Common Causes of Immediate Paper Jam/Stopper Jam Errors

1. Residual Paper or Debris:
   Even the smallest scrap of paper caught in the rollers or sensors can trigger the jam message. This includes corners torn off from previous jams, adhesive labels, or bits of dust and fibers.

2. Foreign Object in the Paper Path:
   Staples, paper clips, or even dried ink flakes lodged in the feed rollers or behind the duplexer can block movement.

3. Stuck Paper Stopper Mechanism:
   The ET-8550 uses a paper stopper (also called an output tray stopper) to catch and stop paper at certain points. If the stopper’s sensor is triggered permanently (due to misalignment, spring damage, or sensor blockage), the printer thinks there’s an active jam.

4. Sensor Malfunction:
   Dust, ink mist, or a faulty sensor board may misread the status of the paper path. For the ET-8550, common trouble spots are the entrance feed sensor and the duplexer exit sensor.

5. Mechanical Gear Obstruction:
   Gears that drive the rollers can be blocked or damaged. Sometimes dried ink or grease buildup can prevent free rotation.

Steps to Try Before Repair Service

• Power Off & Manual Inspection: Disconnect the printer from power. Remove all accessible trays. Open both the rear paper feed path and front output tray. Shine a flashlight inside to look for scraps or obstructions.

• Check the Duplexer Unit: Remove the duplexer (rear door) and inspect both rollers and the paper sensor flag. Move the flag gently—if it’s stuck, it may be causing a false jam reading.

• Clean the Sensors: If you can locate the small black optical sensors in the feed path, clean them carefully with a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol. Avoid bending or breaking sensor flags.

• Reset After Clearing: Once cleaned, reconnect power, hold down the power button for a few seconds, and see if the error clears. If it still appears immediately, a sensor board replacement or mechanical repair may be necessary.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. We’re not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it might take a few weeks before we can get to your printer once it’s dropped off. Our services cover either complete printer repairs or specific part replacements, with clear steps for proceeding. While our rates might not be the lowest, we highly recommend exploring self-help through online research. A great starting point is the search function on our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Click the magnifying glass icon next to “About” to search for your exact topic. With over nine years of videos, it’s challenging to recall every single one, so this search method is the fastest way to find relevant guidance—and YouTube may even recommend helpful videos from other creators.

Thanks again for reaching out to us, and we appreciate your trust in BCH Technologies. Your engagement keeps us motivated to provide thorough and reliable information for all printer users.