DTG Conversion Issue: Dampers Primed but Still No Ink Printing - Causes and Fixes

Question:
I've converted my printer to DTG and installed all the necessary parts. I primed the dampers, but they still don't seem to be getting ink. I've followed the installation process, but the printer is not printing any ink at all. What could be wrong?

Answer:
From your description, there's an important point to clarify: if the dampers were properly primed, they should already contain ink. So when you say the dampers are "not getting ink," it usually indicates one of the following situations:

1. Dampers Were Not Fully or Properly Primed

Sometimes it appears that dampers are primed, but they may only be partially filled or contain air pockets.

• A properly primed damper should be completely filled with ink and free of air bubbles.

• If there's visible air, the printhead won't receive consistent ink flow.

• Try re-priming using a syringe from the outlet side of the damper until you see a solid, bubble-free ink column.

2. Ink Line or Tank Flow Issue

Even if dampers are primed initially, they won't stay filled if ink isn't flowing from the tank.

Check:

• Are your ink tanks properly vented? (Closed vents create vacuum lock.)

• Are the ink lines kinked, pinched, or blocked?

• Is the ink level sufficient?

A blocked or air-locked line can prevent ink from replenishing the dampers.

3. Capping Station Not Creating Suction

The capping station plays a critical role in pulling ink through the system.

• If the cap top seal is weak, damaged, or misaligned, it won't generate proper suction.

• A failing pump or clogged waste line can also prevent ink draw.

Test:
Perform a cleaning cycle and observe:

• Do you see ink moving through the waste line?

• If not, the pump/capping system is likely the issue.

4. Printhead Air Lock or Severe Drying

Even with primed dampers, the printhead itself may be air-locked or clogged.

Symptoms:

• No ink output at all

• Blank nozzle check

Solutions:

• Perform a manual prime from the capping station

• Use cleaning solution to flush the printhead (carefully)

• Let the head sit on a cleaning-soaked cap overnight (if clogging is suspected)

5. Incorrect Installation or Connection Issues

During DTG conversion, it's easy to overlook small but critical details:

• Dampers not fully seated on the printhead nipples

• Loose fittings allowing air leaks

• Incorrect routing of ink lines

Even a tiny air leak will break the ink flow.

6. Electrical or Firmware-Related Issues

If the printer behaves like it's printing but no ink comes out:

• Check for error codes such as:

  • 0x97 / 0xEA (Epson fatal errors) - may indicate printhead or mainboard issues

  • Nozzle check prints blank but carriage moves normally - could still be flow-related, not electrical

In most DTG conversions, however, a complete lack of ink is usually mechanical (ink delivery) rather than electronic.

Key Takeaway

If the dampers were truly primed, they must contain ink. So the issue is likely one of these:

• Air entering the system after priming

• Ink not being replenished from the tank

• Suction failure from the capping/pump system

• Printhead blockage or air lock

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. As such, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (Printer Repair Service: https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can accept your printer for drop-off. Our services are structured to repair either a full printer or specific components, with clear guidance throughout the process. That said, we understand our rates may not be the most economical option, so we strongly encourage exploring self-help resources online. A great place to start is YouTube or our channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the "About" tab to find videos on your specific issue. With hundreds of videos created over the past nine years, this is the fastest way to locate relevant content-and YouTube may also recommend helpful videos from other creators.

Thanks again for reaching out and for your continued support. We truly appreciate you being part of the BCH Technologies community.