Resolving Canon Pro 1000 Banding Issues: A Comprehensive Guide

Canon Pro 1000 users experiencing incomplete nozzle checks and thin bandings on the black matte ink section may find solutions beyond the standard cleaning cycles suggested by customer service. In this tech overview, we delve into a user forum conversation where a viable manual cleaning method is discussed, offering a potential remedy before resorting to purchasing a new printhead.

Understanding the Problem

The user initially encounters incomplete nozzle checks and noticeable bandings on black matte ink sections despite multiple cleaning cycles, including a deep clean. The issue is particularly evident on regular or matte paper but absent on glossy paper, where the photo black ink is utilized.

User-Recommended Manual Cleaning Method

1. Cartridge Removal and Printhead Placement

Instead of further cleaning cycles, the user recommends a manual cleaning approach. Begin by removing the cartridges and taping over the cartridge ink outlets to keep them moist. In a flat dish, place about 1/6 inch of original Windex, ensuring the printhead's channels face down into the liquid. Avoid getting Windex on the contacts.

2. Soaking Process

Let the printhead soak for an initial period, possibly a couple of hours. If the issue persists, extend the soaking time, with a cautionary note that success is not guaranteed and may occur "by chance." After soaking, wipe off Windex with a wet napkin, followed by a dry napkin. Use a vinyl eraser (not scratchy ones) to clean contacts, always following the contact angles.

3. Printhead Reassembly

After cleaning, it's crucial to reassemble the printhead carefully. Wipe off any eraser bits, and refrain from using paper towels to avoid scratches or paper bits in the channels. The user emphasizes cleaning channels in the direction of contact angles to prevent damage.

Additional Tips and Considerations

• The user suggests refraining from excessive cleaning cycles, limiting them to a couple per hour to prevent excessive heat, which can harden any existing plug.
• Another user cautions against attempting printhead removal on a Pro 1000 without having a replacement, as external cleaning may not yield significant results.

Community Response and Insights

• Another user recommends posting a nozzle check to assess the current state of the printer.
• A discussion ensues regarding the strange disparity in printing between paper surfaces, prompting considerations of paper type settings or allowing the printer to sit overnight before further attempts.

Additional Resources

• A user shares a teardown video for the PFI-10 printhead (for the Pro-1000) found on YouTube, offering potential insights for future troubleshooting.

While manual cleaning methods may offer a cost-effective solution, users are encouraged to proceed with caution and consider other factors affecting print quality. For more in-depth discussions and tutorials, the BCH Technologies YouTube channel provides valuable insights into printer maintenance. Additionally, following their tech blog or visiting their location in Greensboro, North Carolina, may offer hands-on assistance and further community support.

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