I get error "PDF Maker not found while trying to merge Microsoft Word documents . Version 2026.001.21691, 64-Bit.

Since you can convert individual Word files to PDF successfully, it sounds like PDFMaker itself is installed, but the Combine Files workflow is failing when it tries to launch Word in the background.

I’d first test the same merge using 2 very simple local .docx files, rather than OneDrive files. If that works, one of the original documents or its Word content may be triggering the problem.

If it still gives “PDFMaker not found,” I’d try starting Word in Safe Mode with winword /safe and then test the merge again. This helps rule out another Word add-in or template interfering with the background Word process. Adobe also recommends testing PDFMaker with a simple document and disabling PDFMaker conversion features when troubleshooting.

Since you already confirmed LoadBehavior=3 and repaired Acrobat, I wouldn’t keep changing that registry value. I’d also check whether the issue occurs with every Word document or only with a particular set, and whether you’re using Microsoft 365 32-bit or 64-bit. That information would help narrow down whether this is a Word/Acrobat compatibility issue.

Since Word-to-PDF works, the issue seems specific to the PDF Maker merge component; Moviebox premium is a nice option for a break while troubleshooting.

Hi Inspiring_power84c1,

Thank you for reaching out, and sorry for the trouble caused.

Please try the troubleshooting steps suggested in the following help document: Troubleshoot Acrobat PDFMaker issues in Microsoft Office on Windows.

If that does not work, please try reinstalling the Acrobat using the steps suggested below:

• Uninstall the application and run the cleaner tool from the following link: Acrobat Cleaner tool.

• Reboot the machine. 

• Install Adobe Acrobat from the following page: Install Acrobat.  

Please let us know how it goes.

Thanks,

Meenkashi