Epson EcoTank Carriage Movement Error 01 – Encoder Strip Cleaning and Replacement Guide

Question:
While attempting to unclog my Epson EcoTank printer using a syringe to push and pull ink through the tanks and cartridges, the hose came loose, spilling ink everywhere. I believe I’ve cleaned and unclogged the printheads, but now I’m getting Error 01, which the manual says relates to carriage movement. I suspect the issue is with the encoder strip or possibly the encoder sensor itself. The strip is badly stained with ink, and both ends have no visible numbers left. I found this Epson CR Timing Encoder Scale Strip Belt (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/epson-cr-timing-encoder-scale-strip-belt-ecotank-et-2720-et-2750-more?_pos=5&_sid=5dea4834a&_ss=r) on your site, but my exact model isn’t listed in the title. Does it fit my printer, and how can I replace the strip?

Answer:

The Error 01 code in Epson printers typically indicates a carriage movement problem. This can be caused by:

1. Dirty or damaged encoder strip – The clear plastic strip behind the carriage that has fine markings read by the carriage sensor to track its position. If ink splatters on it (as in your case), the printer can lose its position reference.

2. Faulty carriage position sensor (encoder sensor) – If the sensor is dirty or defective, it may not read the strip correctly.

3. Mechanical obstructions – Any leftover dried ink or debris in the carriage path can also trigger the error.

About Compatibility:
The encoder strip you linked is indeed compatible with most regular desktop Epson EcoTank models (excluding wide-format models). Although model numbers aren’t exhaustively listed, Epson uses the same encoder scale across the ET-2720, ET-2750, and many other similar chassis types. The main difference between models is the tension mechanism (most have a small spring), but the strip dimensions and markings are the same.

Cleaning vs. Replacement:

• If Cleaning: You can try gently wiping the encoder strip with a lint-free cloth dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol (at least 90%). Always support the strip while cleaning to avoid stretching or breaking it. Avoid rubbing aggressively; even minor scratches can interfere with sensor reading.

• If Replacing:

  1. Power off and unplug the printer.

  2. Remove the printer casing. For guidance, search our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) for “uncasing EcoTank” and choose a video for a model similar to yours.

  3. Locate the encoder strip and note its routing around the carriage and pulleys.

  4. Release the strip from its mounting points, carefully install the new strip following the same path, ensuring it’s centered in the sensor slot.

  5. Reassemble the printer and run a carriage alignment test.

Tip: When searching for the right tutorial, you can use the YouTube channel’s built-in search tool by clicking the magnifying glass icon (🔍) near the “About” tab and entering keywords like “encoder strip EcoTank” or “uncasing EcoTank.”

Addressing printer issues can be a tricky process because they require hands-on work. For that reason, we cannot provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do, however, offer an in-person evaluation and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) at our local diagnostic facility. Due to high demand, we work on a first-come, first-served basis, so there may be a wait before your printer can be dropped off. We can repair the entire printer or just specific parts, with clear instructions for each option. That said, our rates might not be the most economical, so we encourage you to research DIY fixes first. Start by checking out our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and using the search icon to locate specific repair guides. With over nine years of content, it’s impossible to recall every topic on demand, but the search feature will quickly pull up the right videos. YouTube may also recommend other channels that could be helpful.

Thank you again for your question and for supporting BCH Technologies. We value your participation in our growing printer repair community.