Epson ET-8500 Printhead Installation and Servicing Guidance

Question:
I have an Epson 8500 printer that needs servicing. I installed a new printhead I bought, but the printer isn't printing anything. Do you provide repair services for this type of issue?

Answer:

At this time, we do not provide full printer repair services for entire Epson ET-8500 units. However, we can service mainboards, provided that your printhead and FFC (Flat Flexible Cable) connections are sound. Since your printer is not printing after installing a new printhead, here are some detailed steps and considerations that may help:

1. Parking the Printhead Correctly

   • Turn the printer on and allow the printhead to settle naturally onto the capping station. This is the safest way to ensure correct positioning.

   • Avoid manually forcing the head into position with the power off, as this can misalign the mechanics or damage the printhead seals.

2. Priming the Printhead with DTF Ink

   • DTF (Direct-to-Film) ink is thicker than standard ink, which sometimes requires extra steps to help the printhead start.

   • Connect a syringe and tube to the printer's waste ink line and gently draw about 2 ml of air.

     • At around 1.5 ml, you should feel slight resistance. This indicates the suction is pulling ink through and the nozzles are open.

     • If you only draw air with no resistance, the printhead may not be parked correctly, or the capping station's seal might be leaking.

     • If you feel complete resistance and nothing moves, the capping station may be clogged, preventing ink flow. This must be cleared before proceeding.

3. Observing the Dampers

   • While drawing air, you may hear the damper membrane crinkle. This is a good sign that ink is beginning to flow and the nozzles are opening.

   • Continue drawing gently until you reach 2 ml and hold it there for about 10 seconds.

4. Final Cleaning Steps

   • Once priming is complete, run the printer's regular cleaning cycle to help stabilize ink flow.

   • Avoid running strong cleanings within the first 12 hours and do not run multiple cleanings back-to-back, as this can flood the system or damage the printhead.

Please keep in mind that even after proper installation and priming, printheads sometimes fail due to electrical damage, improper storage before installation, or ink incompatibility. Always verify your cables (FFC) are properly seated and free from corrosion or cracks.

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 offer an in-person evaluation and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) at our local diagnostic facility. Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and there may be a wait time of a few weeks. Our services cover either complete printers or specific parts, with clear guidance on how to proceed. That said, our rates may not be the most economical, so we encourage exploring self-help options online as well. A great place to start is our **YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies)**-use the search icon next to "About" on the menu bar to find videos on your topic. YouTube may also recommend other channels with additional troubleshooting tips.

Thank you again for reaching out and for supporting BCH Technologies. We're glad to assist you in keeping your Epson ET-8500 printer running at its best.