Epson 1390 Two Red Blinking Lights After Head Replacement - Causes, Error Codes, and What to Do Next

Question:
I replaced the printhead and capping station on my Epson 1390, using all new parts, but now the printer shows two red blinking lights. I tried to reset the ink levels using adjustment software but couldn't find one. I saw on your site that it might be the mainboard. I've already spent a lot on repairs and don't know what to do next. Do I need to replace the board, or is there something else causing the issue?

Answer:
Understanding the Two Red Blinking Lights

On the Epson 1390, two red blinking lights (paper + ink LEDs flashing alternately or simultaneously) typically indicate a general error condition, not just an ink reset issue. This is important-because many users assume it's related to ink pads or counters, but in reality, it often points to hardware-related faults.

Some common causes include:

• Carriage (CR) errors

• APG sensor issues (Auto Gap sensor)

• Paper feed (PF) mechanism faults

• Encoder strip or encoder disk problems

• Mainboard communication failure

• Improper reassembly after part replacement

Step 1: Retrieve the Exact Error Code

Instead of guessing, the best approach is to extract the internal error code using Epson's Adjustment Program.

Here's how:

1. Open the Adjustment Program.

2. Select the correct USB port (your Epson 1390).

3. Click "Particular Adjustment Mode."

4. Scroll and select "Printer Information Check."

5. Click "Check."

6. Look at Error Number 1 (this is your most recent and relevant error).

Once you have that code, you can interpret it.

You can search: "BCH Epson Error Codes" on Google to find our detailed breakdown of Epson's hidden error system (often called "Triple Secret Codes").

Step 2: Common Errors After Head Replacement

Based on your situation (printhead + capping station replacement), here are the most likely error categories:

1. APG Sensor Error

• This sensor detects the printhead height.

• If misaligned or disconnected during reassembly, it will trigger errors.

• Often shows up after disassembling the carriage area.

2. CR (Carriage) Motor or Encoder Error

• If the encoder strip is dirty, scratched, or misaligned, the printer cannot track head position.

• Symptoms:

  • Red blinking lights

  • Carriage slamming or not moving correctly

3. Head Cable / FFC Cable Issue

• Even new heads can fail if:

  • Cables are not fully seated

  • Pins are bent

  • Wrong orientation

• This can also short the mainboard, which is why some people suspect board failure.

4. Capping Station / Pump Assembly Misalignment

• If the capping station is installed too tight or misaligned:

  • It can block carriage movement

  • Trigger mechanical errors

Step 3: Do You Really Need a New Mainboard?

Not so fast. The mainboard is rarely the first thing to fail unless:

• There was a short circuit during head installation

• You powered on the printer with misconnected head cables

• There are visible burn marks or no communication at all

Before replacing the board, double-check:

• All ribbon cables (especially printhead cables)

• Encoder strip (clean and correctly threaded)

• Carriage movement (manual smooth glide when powered off)

• Sensor connections (APG, home position sensor)

Step 4: About Ink Reset / Waste Counter

You mentioned trying to reset ink levels. That's a different issue:

• Waste ink counter errors usually show alternating blinking lights in a specific pattern

• They are solved via Waste Ink Pad Reset, not hardware repair

However, your case sounds more like a mechanical or sensor fault, not just a counter reset.

Step 5: Helpful Video Walkthrough

For a quick visual guide on using the adjustment program, you can watch:
https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE

Important Note on Adjustment Software

The Epson Adjustment Program is:

• Not officially distributed publicly

• Typically used by Epson technicians

• Sometimes shared by DTF printer sellers

If you don't have it, you may need to search online carefully to locate a working version.

Addressing printer issues can be quite complex due to the hands-on nature of the repairs involved. Unfortunately, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting or step-by-step repair guidance beyond general recommendations. However, we do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service [https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service]). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can accept new drop-offs. Our services are structured to repair either complete printers or specific components, with clear instructions provided. That said, we understand our rates may not be the most economical option, so we strongly encourage self-guided troubleshooting. A great place to start is YouTube, including our channel homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies [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. YouTube may also recommend helpful videos from other creators.

Thanks again for reaching out and for sticking with your repair journey. I know this situation is frustrating, especially after investing in new parts, but with the correct error code and a focused diagnosis, you still have a strong chance of resolving it without replacing the mainboard.