Epson ET-2550 Black Ink Printing Issue – Missing Nozzle Lines and Possible Fixes

Question:
I have an Epson ET-2550 that has recently developed a black ink printing issue. The top of the letters appears faded or incomplete, as if part of the black nozzles aren’t firing. I’ve already done extensive maintenance: replaced the maintenance pads, cleared the waste ink line and peristaltic pump, cleaned the capping station and sponge, flushed the black damper and nozzle several times with cleaning solution, let the printhead soak overnight, primed the damper and ink line, and refilled the black tank. The problem persists. What could be causing this? Also, I couldn’t find the service manual for the ET-2550 on your site, but I saw it used in one of your videos—do you sell it?

Answer:

Regarding your ET-2550, we do not have a service manual available for sale for this specific model. However, based on your description and the photo you mentioned, the problem appears to be missing nearly an entire row of nozzles at the top section of the black channel. This would cause exactly what you’re seeing—faded or incomplete tops of letters and other printed content.

There are a few possible causes:

1. Excess Ink on the Bottom of the Printhead
   If too much ink builds up on the underside of the printhead, it can block the spray pattern of certain nozzles. Even if the nozzles are mechanically fine, the ink can interfere with firing and result in a partial or missing band in your output.

   • Fix: After ensuring the printer is off, gently clean the bottom of the printhead with a lint-free cloth and a suitable cleaning solution. Avoid excessive pressure that could damage the nozzle plate.

2. Air Clogs in the Ink Channel
   Sometimes, tiny air bubbles or blockages remain trapped inside the ink channel, even after repeated cleanings and priming. This prevents ink from properly reaching certain nozzles.

   • Fix: You can try running a more intensive head cleaning cycle from the printer’s maintenance menu. In stubborn cases, manual priming using a syringe adapter can help push the air through, though it must be done carefully to avoid damage.

3. Permanent Clog or Internal Damage
   Unfortunately, if the blockage is due to dried ink deep inside the nozzle or internal wear, the affected nozzles may be permanently nonfunctional. In such cases, replacing the printhead is the only true fix.

4. Workaround for Immediate Printing Needs
   Since your other nozzles seem to be working fine, you can sometimes compensate for the missing band by increasing the print quality setting. Switch the printing preference to Standard-Vivid or even High quality mode. This forces the printer to use more passes and mix more ink, which can help mask the issue in many cases.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. For that reason, we’re unable to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) through our local diagnostic facility. Because of high demand, we work on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take several weeks before your printer can be dropped off for service. We can repair the entire printer or specific components, with clear instructions provided once you’re booked in. That said, our rates may not be the cheapest option—so we also recommend exploring self-help solutions online. You can start by searching on YouTube or using our YouTube channel’s homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to “About” on the right-hand side of the menu bar to locate specific repair videos. With nine years of uploads, we can’t always recall every topic we’ve covered—but YouTube’s search tool will help you find the right guide and may even suggest relevant videos from other creators.

Thank you again for your question and for being part of the BCH Technologies community. Your participation helps us continue building resources for printer users worldwide.