How to Remove and Replace the Printhead on Epson ET-8550: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you own an Epson ET-8550 printer, you may encounter issues with your printhead over time. The printhead is a crucial component of your printer and it can wear out, get clogged, or simply stop working properly. When this happens, you may need to replace the printhead to get your printer back up and running.

In this article, we will show you how to remove and replace the printhead on your Epson ET-8550 printer. We will provide you with a step-by-step guide to make the process as easy as possible. If you prefer visual instructions, make sure to watch our video for detailed instructions.

Before we get started, there are a few things you should know. First, make sure your printer is turned off and unplugged before you begin. Second, you will need a set of dental tools, a screwdriver, and a container to hold the screws. Third, if you have any doubts about your ability to do this, you should contact a professional for help.

Step 1: Remove the Housing Cover

The first step is to remove the housing cover on the left side of your printer. This will give you enough workspace to remove the printhead. If you have followed our previous video on taking your printer apart, you will know how to do this. Otherwise, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional help.

Step 2: Remove the Spring and Tube Guard

Now that you have removed the housing cover, slide the printhead to the left to create enough workspace. Use a dental tool to remove the spring and tube guard. First, lift what's in the front, then slide it towards the right to remove it. Lift straight up to remove the tube guard. To reinstall, put it down and then pull it towards the left.

Step 3: Remove the Adaptor Plates

Remove the adaptor plates by removing the six screws that hold them in place. Use a Phillips #1 screwdriver bit to remove the screws. Put your dental tool in the hole from the screw and pull it towards you to remove the adaptor plates. Make sure to put the damper in a sequence so you can put them back one by one during reinstallation.

Step 4: Mark the Damper and Tubes

Before you remove the damper, mark it with a magic marker. Do the same for the tubes. This will help you during reinstallation. Disconnect the FFC cable and lift the printhead by your hand. Save the screws in a container as they are special and will be needed during reinstallation.

Step 5: Install the New Printhead

Now that you have removed the old printhead, it's time to install the new one. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. Remember to reattach the FFC cable and screws in their correct positions.

Step 6: Reinstall the Adaptor Plates, Tube Guard, and Housing Cover

Reinstall the adaptor plates, tube guard, and housing cover in the reverse order you removed them. Make sure everything is secured and in the correct position before turning your printer back on.

In conclusion, removing and replacing the printhead on your Epson ET-8550 printer can seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be done easily. Follow the steps outlined in this article or watch our video for detailed instructions.