A cradle unit for a print engine, the cradle unit configured to receive a cartridge unit having a printhead assembly. The cradle unit includes a main body defining an opening for receiving said cartridge, the main body having a frame structure including end plates with drive and exit rollers mounted therebetween. The cradle unit also includes a printed circuit board (PCB) pivotally mounted between the end plates for housing control electronics for controlling the operation of the print engine, along with a cover assembly for securing said cartridge in the opening. The cover assembly is pivotally mounted between the end plates, the cover assembly configured to pivot the PCB into electrical contact with a printhead controller on the cartridge when in a closed position, and to pivot the PCB out of electrical connection with said printhead controller when in an open position. The cradle unit also includes a maintenance drive assembly having a motor operatively connected to a maintenance gear and maintenance actuator arrangement and to a wiper gear and wiper actuator arrangement, the maintenance drive assembly operated by the PCB control electronics.