Abstract: A paper-handling and maintenance station assembly for use in an ink jet printer is described. A paper-handling loop is included in a paper conveying system. The loop has at least one opening therein. A rotatable maintenance station has a plurality of members positioned about the circumference thereof, each member performing a different maintenance function. The maintenance station can be provided within an area enclosed by the loop and can be moved in an axial direction to engage a printhead which can be fixedly positioned at a location exterior to the loop enclosed area. The opening in the loop allows the engagement between the maintenance station and printhead.