How to Fix Epson 8550 Error Code 000021: Clear Tubing Cover Broke

Question:

My Epson 8550's clear tubing cover broke, and now I'm getting error code 000021. How can I fix or replace it? Thanks for all your videos!

Answer:

Thank you for contacting us! We at BCH Technologies are grateful for your engagement and support, especially through our YouTube channel. Your feedback is crucial in helping us enhance our technical expertise.

The Epson 8550's clear tubing guide is not particularly sturdy and isn't designed for frequent removal and reinstallation of dampers. To address this, I suggest installing a drag chain like this drag chain tube guide (https://bchtechnologies.com/drag-chain-tube-guide-26-inches-660-mm-pre-configured-for-a3-dtf-dtg-printers-l1800-xp-15000-et8550-1390-but-adjustable-length/).

The error code 000021 on your Epson 8550 indicates a CR PID overload error. This means that the printer's printhead carriage return (CR) is experiencing an overload issue. This can be due to several reasons such as the CR motor failing, the drive mechanism being overloaded due to a paper jam or foreign object, insufficient grease on the moving parts, or deformation of the main frame. Additionally, it could be caused by parts becoming detached, such as the paper guide upper assembly or the cap assembly. Issues like the tooth skipping on the CR timing belt, improper tension of the belt, cable disconnection, or a failure in the main board's motor driver can also cause this error.

In your case, the error is likely because the broken clear tubing cover obstructed the printhead's movement. Consequently, the printer believes the motor is overloaded or that there is a problem with the drive belt tension. However, once you fix the pathway by addressing the tubing cover issue, the printer should resume normal operation.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it off or mail it to us. Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed if you opt for mail-in or local drop-off services. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we highly recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thanks again for reaching out!