How to Address Issues with Sponge-less Cartridge Conversions and Refilled Ink Cartridges

Question: 
I converted a standard-yield ink cartridge into a sponge-less one and have used it for about 900 more pages, totaling 2,200 from 1,300 pages. The printer prints about 20 pages once or twice a week, using the draft for text, while full-page images are printed a few times weekly. Since the conversion, I have started experiencing issues. Have any of you tried putting a sponge-less cartridge cap onto another cartridge? 
 
Answer: 
Thank you for reaching out to us with your question! I am very sorry for the delayed response to your request. I know how frustrating printer problems might be, so I want to ensure you get the most thorough and thoughtful answer I can give. BCH Technologies values your support and commitment and wants to tell you how we greatly appreciate your engagement, especially your contributions to YouTube. Your comments help us enhance our content and technical acuity. 
Here is a breakdown of your request: 

Understanding Cartridge Stress During Refills and Modifications

Modified cartridges, especially those converted to sponge-less versions, can face issues due to the mechanical and chemical stresses involved:

1. Repeated Handling:
   When you remove and reinsert a cartridge, the seals and internal components are exposed to variables like air bubbles, ink leaks, and pressure inconsistencies.
2. Seal Management:
   Creating an airtight seal ensures smooth ink flow in sponge-less cartridges. Any gaps or leaks can trap air, interrupting the ink's flow to the printhead.
3. Wear on Cartridge Components:
   Converting a cartridge—particularly after extended use (like printing an additional 900 pages)—can amplify pre-existing wear and tear.

 
Resolving Questions About Cartridge Modifications 
The events and patterns are likely to be related to issues of mechanical and chemical stress due to the following factors:
Using RTV Silicone for Seals:
RTV silicone is a standard adhesive used to seal cartridges during sponge-less modifications. It forms a flexible, airtight seal but can be removed easily.
For Airtight Seals: Superglue
I prefer super glue, as creating a solid, permanent, airtight seal is easier. To ensure flexibility for future changes, you can purchase a superglue remover (easily found on Amazon) so the sealed components can easily lift out of the cartridge without damaging it.
Cartridge Cap Transplants:
Transplanting a sponge-less cartridge cap onto another cartridge is possible but rarely attempted, as it can cause alignment issues. But if you do choose to go ahead:

• Fitment: The dimensions and structure of the cap should be perfectly suitable for the donor.
• Sealing for Airtightness: After transplanting, use glass RTV or superglue to seal and reinforce the seals.

Preemptive Maintenance:
This will shorten the life span of standard-yield cartridges rather than high-yield or extended-capacity ones. Start with the highest-yield cartridge possible to prevent premature failure and enhance post-conversion performance.
 
Recommendations for Your Case
In light of your particular usage scenario (printing reports and full-page images weekly):

• If you can, try to wipe the slate and give yourself a fresh start with a high-yield cartridge for your next mod.
• Silicone or superglue can be used for watertight seals.
• Please don't transplant pieces unless necessary because fixing alignment and air pressure problems can be complicated.

 
Supplemental Support and Resources
However, fixing printer problems can be especially tricky, given how tactile the issues tend to be. As such, we cannot offer remote troubleshooting, advice, or support for printer repairs. However, we also provide an at-home evaluation and repair (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) service at our local diagnostic center.
Due to extreme demand, we offer a first-come, first-serve service. Hence, there might be a wait time for your printer to be serviced on arrival. We recommend that you seek self-help through online resources. The easiest way to find them is to visit our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and use the search icon to locate the relevant troubleshooting videos. YouTube might also recommend valuable videos from other creators.
Again, thanks for your question and for continuing to support BCH Technologies. I hope these tips help you understand your cartridge conversion problems. Feel free to reach out if you have additional questions!