Epson ET-8550 DTF Printer Error 031006: Causes and Repair Options

Question:
I’m using an Epson ET-8550 for DTF printing, but I’ve run into serious issues. First, I lost white ink flow and tried every method I could think of without success. I even removed the printhead, soaked it in cleaning solution, let it dry, and reinstalled it. After that, the printer displayed error code 031006. I don’t feel comfortable removing the motherboard myself. Can I send in the entire printer for repair, and what would I need to do?

Answer:

1. Pre-Error Troubleshooting: Park and Prime

Before the printer displayed error 031006, one last step that can sometimes help restore white ink flow is a park and prime procedure:

• Power on the printer and let the printhead settle naturally on the capping station. This ensures it’s properly sealed.

• Connect a syringe with tubing to the printer’s waste line. Gently draw about 1.5 ml of air—you should feel a slight resistance if the head is seated properly.

  • If you only pull air without resistance, the printhead likely isn’t parked correctly, or the capping station seal is leaking.

  • If you feel full blockage and can’t draw at all, the capping station may be clogged. In that case, it needs to be cleared before priming is possible.

• If working correctly, you may hear the damper membrane crinkle, which means the nozzles are open. At that point, slowly draw up to 2 ml total and hold for 10 seconds.

• Afterward, run the printer’s built-in cleaning cycle, but avoid heavy or repeated cleanings within a 12-hour period, as that can stress the system further.

This method sometimes revives ink flow in printers using thicker DTF ink.

2. Understanding Error 031006

Unfortunately, once you received error code 031006, it points to a more severe failure. This error means that cleaning solution entered the printhead’s electronics, causing a short circuit. When that happens, the printhead sends the failure back to the motherboard, which can result in permanent damage.

In most cases with error 031006:

• The mainboard is burnt and requires repair.

• The FFC cable (the flat ribbon cable connecting the printhead) may also be damaged if the short traveled through it. This part must be checked and replaced if necessary.

• The printhead itself is usually beyond recovery. Cleaning fluid exposure damages the internal circuitry, and even if the board is repaired, the head will not function properly again.

3. Repair Options

We can service the motherboard and provide guidance on sourcing a replacement printhead. If the FFC cable shows signs of burning, that will also need replacement. For your situation, sending in the entire printer for evaluation is a good idea since the failure involves multiple sensitive components.

Addressing printer problems like these can be complicated because of the hands-on technical work required. For this reason, we aren’t able to provide remote repair support. However, BCH Technologies does offer an in-person diagnostic and repair service through our printer repair service center (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so please be aware there may be a wait time of a few weeks before we can receive your printer. Our repair service can cover complete printer work or part-specific replacements with clear next steps. That said, our rates may not be the most cost-effective option. Many of our customers prefer self-repair with the help of detailed guides and videos. If you’d like to explore that route, start with our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search function on the channel page (next to the “About” section) to quickly find tutorials related to your specific issue.

Thank you again for reaching out and sharing your situation with us. We greatly value your trust in BCH Technologies, and we’ll continue to do our best to support the printing community with reliable knowledge and resources.