How to Fix Epson Error 000041: Printhead Lock & Carriage Cradle Troubleshooting Guide

Question: How can I fix the 000041 error on my Epson 3750 when the printhead carriage seems stuck and a small spring has come loose?
The user explains that their Epson 3750 is showing error 000041. They have already confirmed it is not a paper jam. After inspecting the printer, they discovered that the printhead housing appears to be the issue and that a small spring has come off. They still have the spring, but they are unsure where it belongs. The user has been struggling with this problem for days and is seeking guidance on how to reattach the spring and resolve the malfunction involving the printhead lock and carriage cradle.

Answer

Regarding your Epson 3750 showing error 000041, you're correct-this code is almost never caused by an actual paper jam. Instead, 000041 translates to a 0x29 error, which is directly related to the printhead carriage's home position. This means the printer activates the motor that moves the printhead, but the feedback from the encoder sensor doesn't return properly. When this happens, the printer assumes something is blocking the carriage.

Typical causes of error 000041 include:

• PID excessive load (printhead unable to move freely)

• Encoder failure or misalignment

• PF motor failure

• PF mechanism overload

• FFC or cable disconnection

• Tooth skip or improper mechanical installation

• Printhead carriage lock not disengaging

In your case, the tiny spring you found is a significant clue. Epson printers-especially models like the ET-2750, ET-2751, and the WF/ET-37xx series-use a printhead lock mechanism with a small tension spring. This spring ensures the lock returns to its default unlocked position after the printer initializes. If the spring detaches, the printhead lock may remain partially or fully engaged. When the carriage tries to move during startup, the printer senses resistance and immediately triggers error 000041, mistaking it for a jam or homing failure.

If you'd like to see a reference for what that spring-and-lock assembly looks like, here is a part commonly used in this printer family:
Epson Printhead Lock with Spring for ET-2751
(https://bchtechnologies.com/products/epson-printhead-lock-with-spring-for-et-2751?_pos=2&_sid=899df8873&_ss=r)

Even if your model differs slightly, the mechanism works the same way. When the spring isn't pulling the lock back into place, the printhead cannot move freely, which perfectly matches the symptoms you described.

Here's what may be happening inside your printer:

1. Your printhead lock is stuck in the locked or semi-locked position.

2. The printhead tries to move left or right during startup.

3. The encoder strip can't register movement because the carriage cannot travel.

4. The printer triggers 000041 because it interprets this as a mechanical jam.

Reattaching the spring usually resolves the issue, but it can be difficult to access and reinstall without minor disassembly. If the spring is stretched, bent, or the anchor point is damaged, the lock mechanism may need replacement.

Addressing printer issues often requires significant hands-on work, which makes remote diagnosis and support limited in scope. Because of this, we're not able to provide step-by-step repair guidance or remote troubleshooting. However, we do offer in-person printer evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take several weeks before a technician can begin working on your machine. Our services range from whole-printer repairs to component-level diagnostics, and each option includes straightforward guidance on how to proceed.

For many customers, self-help remains the most cost-effective path. You may find it helpful to explore repair tutorials on YouTube-including our channel, BCH Technologies (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). On our channel's homepage, you can use the search icon next to "About" to look up videos related to printhead locks, carriage issues, or error code 000041. With nine years of uploaded content, I may not always remember every video, but the built-in search function is extremely effective-and YouTube may also recommend useful videos from other creators.

Thank you again for contacting us and for your patience and dedication in trying to solve this problem. We truly appreciate your support and hope this information helps guide your next steps. Let us know anytime if you have more questions.