The cartridge release lever on this machine is stuck. It will move into the locked position [up] but the cartridge will not drop down completely, thus giving a "cartridge not installed/seated" error. [cartridge release is similar to a LJ9050]

The lever will turn about 1/3 the way toward the unlocked position [down] but then binds against the cartridge body. With the lever in this unlocked position I can pull the cartridge about half-way out but then it stops because of the release lever cam not clearing the tab on the cartridge.

So, I can't get the cartridge out to see if it's broken or something. But I also can't get the cartridge to drop into place and run. From what I can see there doesn't seem to be any damage to the release cam assembly. I'm guessing someone tried to force the cartridge in or out.

Tried removing the fuser, duplex units and then the fan assembly to get at the cartridge better, but no help. Not sure where to go from here.