Pattern to record: Pickup timing is inconsistent despite sound rollers.

Locate the feed stage

Compare plain paper with the specific photo or speciality media supported by the inkjet. Note whether skew begins at pickup or only under the carriage, and keep fingers clear of the moving printhead. One possible explanation is that the drive coupling engages late, slips or remains engaged.

Feed-path checks

1. Inspect pickup surfaces, guides and encoder-related movement using clean supported media.
2. Observe drive timing and inspect the clutch and its control signal.

Before inspecting the mechanism

Keep fingers clear of powered carriage and feed mechanisms. Oiling a dry clutch surface can cause permanent slipping.

Correct the confirmed cause

If the checks support this cause, service or replace the confirmed clutch assembly. Verification should cover plain paper, photo media if supported, alignment, multi-page feed and exit.

For an assessment of your inkjet printer, contact AEPC in Burswood or call 027 908 8880. Provide the model and the conditions that reproduce this problem. Workshop visits are by appointment.