How to Fix the ET-8550 Transportation Lock & 000025 Error: Transportation lock is in the transporting position. Set it to the printing position.

At BCH Technologies, we often hear from customers who encounter frustrating errors on their Epson ET-8550 printers. A common issue is the transportation lock error, which can prevent the printer from functioning properly. In this detailed guide, we’ll explain the causes of the error and provide a step-by-step solution to fix it. Additionally, we'll cover other related issues, like the infamous 000025 error, to ensure your ET-8550 operates smoothly again. Don’t forget to check out the video below that shows how to resolve these problems in real-time.

What is the ET-8550 Transportation Lock Error?

When using an Epson ET-8550, you may suddenly see a message on the LCD panel that reads, "Transportation lock is in the transporting position. Set it to the printing position." This error usually occurs when the printer mistakenly detects that the transportation lock is still engaged, even though it’s been released. The transportation lock is a safeguard designed to secure the printer during transport, preventing damage to internal components.

However, despite physically setting the transportation lock to the printing position, this error may still persist. At BCH Technologies, we’ve found that this issue often stems from something obstructing the printer’s internal mechanisms, which tricks the system into thinking the lock is still in place.

Understanding the Cause of the Error

The transportation lock error is typically triggered when the printhead cannot move freely across its designated path. When the printer starts up, it attempts to move the printhead to the left. If something blocks this movement, the system will continue to believe that the transportation lock is engaged.

One of the most common causes of this obstruction is a misaligned or twisted ink tube. Inside your ET-8550, clear plastic tubing transports ink to the printhead. If these tubes are not properly secured by the clear plastic tube guard, they can become twisted or caught, preventing the printhead from moving. This triggers the error message and causes the printer to believe that the transportation lock is still in the transporting position.

Addressing Error 000025: A Common Companion to the Lock Issue

In many cases, the transportation lock error is accompanied by another frustrating message: "Printer Error. Turn the power off and on again. If the problem persists, press 'Proceed' 000025." Error code 000025 typically occurs when the printhead is unable to move freely, often due to the same issue that triggers the transportation lock error.

This error indicates that the printhead was stopped at a specific point, usually caused by the misalignment of the tubes. If you experience both errors at once, resolving the transportation lock error will often clear up error 000025 as well.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing the Transportation Lock and Error 000025

Now that we understand the likely causes of these errors, let’s walk through the steps to fix them.

1. Turn off your printer: Always power down the printer before attempting any repairs to avoid causing further errors or damage.

2. Inspect the tube guard: Open the printer and locate the clear plastic tube guard that holds the ink tubes in place. Ensure that the guard is securely fastened and has not come loose.

3. Check the tubes for twists or misalignment: Carefully examine the ink tubes. If they are twisted or misaligned, gently adjust them until they are straight. Misalignment is one of the main reasons the printhead cannot move freely, causing both the transportation lock error and the 000025 error.

4. Secure the clips: The plastic tube guard is held in place by several clips. If these clips become loose, the guard will not hold the tubes securely, leading to obstructions. Check that all clips are properly fastened.

5. Manually test the printhead movement: After adjusting the tubes and securing the guard, manually move the printhead along its track to ensure nothing is obstructing its movement. This should resolve the transportation lock error.

6. Turn the printer back on: Power the printer back up and check for any remaining error messages. If you no longer see the "Transportation lock is in the transporting position" message or error code 000025, your problem is likely resolved.

A Long-Term Fix: Installing a Drag Chain

If you frequently encounter the transportation lock error or error 000025 due to tube misalignment, you may want to consider installing a drag chain. A drag chain, sometimes called a cable chain, is a flexible mechanism that holds the tubes in place more securely than the stock plastic guard.

The drag chain completely replaces the plastic tube guard, providing more consistent tube alignment and reducing the chances of mechanical errors.

To install a drag chain:

• Remove the existing plastic tube guard from the printhead carriage.
• Secure the drag chain to the carriage, making sure the tubes are properly seated within it.
• Ensure the tubes are held snugly and that they move freely with the printhead.

By using a drag chain, you can eliminate both the transportation lock and error 000025 issues, as the tubes will no longer become twisted or misaligned.

Avoiding Future Errors: Maintenance Tips for the ET-8550

Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding transportation lock errors, error 000025, and other mechanical issues with your Epson ET-8550. Here are some tips to keep your printer in good condition:

• Regularly inspect the tubes and guards: Every so often, check that the tubes and the plastic guard (or drag chain) are secure and properly aligned. This can prevent small issues from becoming larger problems over time.

• Clean the printhead regularly: Dust, ink buildup, and other debris can obstruct the printhead, leading to additional errors. Cleaning the printhead as part of your regular printer maintenance routine will ensure smoother operation.

• Replace worn-out parts: If any part of the tube guard, drag chain, or printhead assembly is showing signs of wear, replace them as soon as possible. Worn parts can lead to recurring errors and may even damage the printer.

At BCH Technologies, we provide not only guides like this one but also the parts and tools you need to keep your ET-8550 running smoothly.

Why Choose BCH Technologies for Your Printer Repairs?

BCH Technologies is committed to helping you get the most out of your printer. Whether you’re dealing with a transportation lock error, error 000025, or another issue, we have the expertise and resources to assist you.

Visit our website at BCH Technologies to browse our range of repair parts and tools, or watch one of our detailed video guides to see step-by-step instructions on common printer issues. The video below walks you through the process of fixing the transportation lock error, so be sure to check it out for a more hands-on approach.