Can a Roland DX7 Printhead Be Restored After Years of Inactivity?

Question:
I have a Roland printer with a DX7 head that has been sitting unused for about two years. It's a 7-color system, but only two colors are currently working. Can the DX7 printhead be cleaned like in your L1800 DTF video, and is it worth trying to save?

Answer:

1. Applicability of L1800 DTF Cleaning Methods

The cleaning process demonstrated in our L1800 DTF restoration video is not directly compatible with DX7 printheads. The DX7 has a different internal design, fluid channeling, and electrical requirements compared to Epson-based heads like the L1800. Applying the same method could risk damaging the DX7, so it should not be attempted in the same way.

2. Possibility of Saving the DX7 Printhead

The good news is that DX7 heads can often be recovered, even after sitting idle for years, provided there isn't irreversible nozzle plate damage or internal corrosion. Since you still have two colors firing, that indicates the piezo elements inside the head are still partially functional, which is a positive sign. With the right solvents, controlled flushing methods, and professional-level equipment, it is often possible to restore some or all of the lost channels.

3. Current Options and Future Services

We are actively working on developing a modification and cleaning solution specifically for DX7 heads, which will address their unique design challenges. The method shown for the L1800 simply won't work on this model. However, we're also preparing to offer a printhead repair service soon, and DX7 restoration will be part of that service lineup. This will allow customers to send in their heads for professional evaluation and, when feasible, recovery.

4. Worth Trying to Save?

Given that brand-new DX7 heads can be very expensive, it is generally worth attempting restoration before considering replacement. Even if not every channel can be fully recovered, partial recovery may extend the life of your current head and reduce costs significantly.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do, however, provide an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Please note that service operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks before we can process your printer or parts. Our work covers both complete units and individual components, with detailed instructions provided. While our pricing may not always be the most budget-friendly, we strongly encourage supplementing with self-help options through online resources. You can start with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), where the search icon beside the "About" tab is especially helpful for quickly locating relevant videos among the hundreds we've published over the years.

Thank you again for your question and support. We look forward to continuing to provide resources and solutions that help you and others succeed with specialized printing setups like the Roland DX7.