0x98WorkForce WF-3520

Epson WorkForce WF-3520 Error 0x98: Paper Motor Failure

The Epson WorkForce WF-3520 error 0x98 is linked to faults in the paper feed motor (PF Motor). This code appears when the control system detects that the motor driving the paper is not turning correctly or not responding to commands sent from the logic board. It is crucial to distinguish whether this error is caused by excessive load on the rollers or by a failure in the mechanical drive system's electronic components.

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Common causes

  • 1Persistent jam in the feed roller area.
  • 2Rubber rollers crystallized by age or heat.
  • 3Electrical fault in the paper motor controllers.
  • 4Clogged paper presence sensor (PF Encoder).

Solutions

Quick Diagnostics

The 0x98 error often occurs when the printer attempts to initialize the feed rollers. If the motor sound is forced or doesn't start, search for internal paper jams that prevent the mechanism from turning or a fault in the motor rotation sensor.

Step-by-step Solution

  1. Disconnect the printer from the power and open the rear access tray.
  2. Remove any object or paper found in the rollers' path.
  3. Clean the rollers with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water.
  4. Perform a 30-minute power-off reset to allow internal capacitors to discharge.

Prevention and Maintenance

Avoid using very thick or textured paper that strains the feed motor. Keep the input tray clean to prevent foreign objects from entering the mechanism.

When to call a technician

If the 0x98 error persists after cleaning the rollers and performing the reset cycle, the motor control board or the motor itself is likely burnt.

Device Technical Specs

  • Technology: Thermal inkjet
  • Speed: Up to 15 ISO ppm
  • Connectivity: USB / Wi-Fi
  • Compatible consumables: Epson 126/127 cartridges
  • Recommended use: Document printing in office
  • Official drivers / firmware

Steps to follow

  1. 1

    Clean rollers

    Use a damp cloth to clean the main feed rollers.

  2. 2

    Free paper

    Make sure there are no paper scraps blocking the input sensor.

  3. 3

    Forced reset

    Disconnect the power cable for 30 minutes and plug it back in.

Frequently asked questions

If the fault is mechanical from paper, yes. If it is electronic motor failure, it will require professional service.

If you hear abnormal mechanical effort when printing, it's almost certainly a jam. If it occurs at rest, it is electrical.

Original Epson 126/127 cartridges ensure optimal workload for the WF-3520's sensors.

Yes, accumulated dust on the input sensor often causes false positives for this error.

Epson WorkForce WF-3520 Error 0x98: Paper Motor Failure | Vimazdev