RICOH Aficio 1224C printer - SC504 error

[JdWebmedia]

I have got a problem with tray 4 on my RICOH Aficio 1224C printer, The error code that comes up is SC504-01 which refers to Drawer 4 Lift Motor Malfunction 4th Paper Tray Error. Does anybody have any ideas how to fix this problem?

Any help would be brilliant, thank you.

[LaserSharp]

The first thing I look for is paper loaded on the wrong side of the tray. I can't tell you how many times I've found empty space in trays being used as paper storage.

Assuming however checked for that may I ask...does the try seem to be lifting? aka...when you open the drawer after getting the error does it drop? or is it failing to lift at all?

[JdWebmedia]

I have taken the paper out and put it back in again and it looks to be working fine. Very strange

[FRIDGEMAGNET]

Try removing the tray and looking inside the cavity. There are 2 paper height photointeruptors on the rear frame that sometimes come dislodged or broken.

[blackcat4866]

Lift Motor

Very common on Ricoh's. The spring loaded coupler that drives the lift plate binds. The splined plastic shaft will twist, and grease won't help. You can file larger the opening in the coupler or replace the lift motor assembly.

If you can't catch it acting up, swap the lift motor assembly for tray 3 with tray 4 (they are identical). The problem should move.