Epson ET-15000 Printhead Removal and Replacement Guide

Navigating the world of printer repairs can seem daunting, especially when dealing with components as essential as the printhead. In the Epson ET-15000, printhead removal and replacement is a procedure that requires careful attention to detail. Let’s dive into a step-by-step guide to achieve this seamlessly.

1. Removing the Upper Housing
To kick things off, focus on the long piece in front of the LCD panel. This will involve removing screws that hold it in place. Once you’re about to lift it, you'll notice that it surrounds a blue support system for the scanner. A nifty trick is to twist the blue support sideways. With this motion, you can easily lift it out, removing the white front piece in the process. To place the blue support back in its position, follow the same twist and slide method.

2. Dismantling the CR Cover
With the upper housing out of the way, accessing the printhead becomes a breeze. Begin by taking off the spring, which is held in place by a blue lever. Most find it easier to use fingers than a dental tool for this task. The next step involves a smaller screw on the side of the top cover meant for the dampers. Remember, when lifting this cover, a tab on the right side needs special attention. Lift the tab and pull directly to the right for a smooth removal.

3. Damper Removal Process
Two screws are holding down the tubes connected to the printhead. Once these are removed, the process to detach the dampers begins. A clear plastic piece guards these tubes. By pulling this plastic to the right, it releases, allowing you to lift it. An important tip: ensure the tubes are facing upwards to prevent ink spillage. Releasing the damper from the printhead involves pushing a tab inward and lifting it up.

Need Dampers? Click HERE.

4. Eliminating the FFC Cable Guard
The CR clip or the carriage clip plays a vital role in securing the FFC cables. Utilizing a dental tool, try to get behind the clip and pull forward. On the upper part of the clip, a gentle push down will do the trick.

5. Disengaging the Damper Holder
Once the carriage clip is released, the damper holder's sides need to be pushed in, releasing it from the carriage.

6. Printhead Screw Removal and Replacement
Twist the blue scanner support for easier access inside the carriage to remove the three screws holding the printhead. With the printhead lifted, the replacement process is all about reversing the steps. Place the large FFC cable in, aligning the printhead correctly. Ensure it sits back in neatly. Reattach all components in the order they were removed, being attentive to screws and their appropriate placements.

Remember, for each step, precision is key. If any part of this guide seems complex, we’ve got a handy video at BCH Technologies that shows how it’s done.

Reaping the Benefits
Having walked through these steps, you're now equipped to ensure that your Epson ET-15000 performs at its peak, producing high-quality prints that Epson is renowned for. Keeping your printer in top shape will serve you well, both in the short and long run.