Fixing the Fake Paper Jam Error on Epson ET-8550: Common Causes and Simple Solutions

Question: I'm experiencing a fake paper jam error on my Epson ET-8550, and I can't find any videos to help me fix it. What should I do?

As for the problem that you're experiencing with the Epson ET-8550, this is most likely a situation where the printer incorrectly detects that there is a paper jam, and it can be caused by many issues ranging from sensor problems to mechanical misalignments. I’m not sure if I have an exact video for this specific problem yet but I’ll be running you through some troubleshooting steps that should help out.

Epson ET-8550 Fake Paper Jam Fix — Troubleshooting Steps

Check for Obstructions:

• Open all access doors and check the paper path for tiny pieces of torn paper, scraps, or debris. Small bits can also block the paper sensors, triggering false paper jam warnings.

Clean the Sensors:

• The ET-8550 relies on optical sensors to sense paper movement and any dust or excessive ink overspray can block said sensors. Wipe the sensors gently with a soft lint-free cloth or use compressed air to blow away any dust or debris around the rollers and in the inside of the paper path. Take care not to scratch or damage the sensors.

Inspect the Rollers:

• Soiled or crooked rollers are another frequent cause of paper feed issues. Inspect the rollers for any build-up of ink or paper dust. Also, wipe down the rollers with a damp, lint-free cloth, making sure that they turn easily without catching or sticking. If the rollers are stiff it may prevent the paper feeding properly.

Reset the Printer:

• Remove power from the printer completely by unplugging it for a few minutes, or if it is plugged in, try turning it off and back on the printer in order to reset its internal system. Turn off the printer completely, unplug the printer for a couple of minutes, and switch it back on. This action usually removes fake error messages and resets the internal elements that might be causing the problem.

Inspect the Encoder Strip:

• The encoder strip is a translucent plastic strip that lies behind the printhead, which lets the printer know where the printhead is moving. There could be false errors if this strip is dirty or faded. Gently wipe the encoder strip, clear of ink and dust buildup, with a soft cloth dampened with distilled water.

Adjust Paper Size and Type Setting

• Double-check that the settings for paper size and type in the printer’s software or control panel match the paper loaded into the tray. If this doesn’t match, the printer may think the paper is jammed even though it isn’t. Be sure the paper is properly fed and lined up in the tray, with no gaps between it sheets.

If you have tried all these steps and still are having a trigger issue, it’s possible there could be a deeper issue with the printhead, or the internal sensors are misaligned, and you would need to reach out to a professional to help service your printer. If yes, you may have to send the printer for a better look and repair.

Should I prepare a detailed troubleshooting or do you want to watch a video on it? As always, we’re here to offer guidance as you navigate the process!

The problem with printers is of course that they are physical devices and dealing with the problems is a bit more hands-on compared to other types of devices. We cannot offer remote hardware troubleshooting, recommendations, or printer repair support. Our local diagnostic facility can provide in-person evaluation and repairs of your equipment (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) -- and due to the high volume of requests, we operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. So, we might not be able to get it to you for a few weeks with that printer drop-off. We have made our services to repair a whole printer or if we are to repair a specific part we provide the guidance how to do that. But, we are aware that we do not have the most economical rates. So, we suggest you go through a self-help process through online resources. (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies)(https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) There, you should see some options on similar content as well as a few videos on the side just search by clicking the search icon next to the "About" menu bar on the far right at the top. I get dozens of questions every day asking for videos on particular topics. Over the course of nine years of making videos, not every single one stays with you. So, the search function in YouTube would be the most efficient approach. Additionally, YouTube may recommend relevant videos from other channels that could help you.