Epson ET-8550 Error 000023: Fixing a Stuck Change Slider and Broken Carriage Lock for DTF Printing

Customer Question:

I have two Epson ET-8550 printers used for DTF printing. After installing a new carriage assembly on one of them, the change slider won’t slide to the right like on the other printer. It seems to get stuck, then the carriage moves entirely to the left and throws an error 000023. What could be the cause?

Answer:

Understanding the Problem

From your description—and the photo you provided—it’s evident that the CR (Carriage) lock mechanism is broken, specifically on the right side. This lock is essential during the printer’s startup sequence. The printer uses it to verify the proper positioning and movement of the carriage unit.

When this CR lock doesn’t engage properly or is physically damaged, the printer fails to complete its startup diagnostic checks and throws the 000023 error code.

This issue is commonly seen after servicing the printhead carriage or replacing the carriage assembly, as mechanical alignment and component integrity are critical to successful operation.

Epson Error 000023 – Root Causes

The 000023 error is officially described as a failure in the CR Motor operation, usually due to movement interference or failed sensors. Below are the common causes:

1. Obstacles in the CR Motion Path

   • Jammed paper or foreign objects

   • Interference from tubing or bulk ink systems

   • Broken or disengaged gears

2. CR Timing Belt Issues

   • Belt jumping teeth

   • Frayed or loose belt tension

3. CR Encoder System Failures

   • Dirty CR encoder scale

   • Skewed or damaged CR encoder flat-flex cable (FFC)

   • Malfunctioning CR encoder sensor

4. Main Board Failure

   • Internal board damage from electrical faults or previous short-circuits

Recommended Fixes and Next Steps

For your specific case, the root problem is very likely the broken CR lock, which should be your first focus. Here’s how to proceed:

1. Inspect the CR Lock Mechanism

   • The CR lock ensures mechanical positioning; a broken component will need replacement. A damaged lock prevents proper carriage initialization and directly triggers the error.

2. Check the CR Motion Path

   • Confirm there's no ink tubing, ribbon cables, or other obstructions in the carriage’s path.

3. Check the Timing Belt

   • Look for any fraying, slipping, or looseness. A poorly tensioned belt can contribute to mechanical resistance.

4. Clean the CR Encoder Scale

   • Use a lint-free cloth and isopropyl alcohol to clean the encoder strip behind the carriage gently. Ink mist can fog the strip and prevent accurate readings.

5. Inspect the CR Encoder Cable and Sensor

   • Check for kinks, tears, or corrosion on the FFC cable. Reseating or replacing the cable and/or sensor may be necessary.

6. Replace the Main Board (only if all else fails)

   • This is a last-resort option if hardware checks don't resolve the issue and the CR motor remains non-functional.

To resolve your issue, start by replacing the CR lock. It’s the most visible and likely culprit. You can find a compatible replacement part through our store at BCH Technologies (https://bchtechnologies.com).

In-Person Service Availability

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. As such, we do not offer remote troubleshooting or repair support. However, we provide in-person diagnostics and repairs at our local repair facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take several weeks for a drop-off appointment.

Our service covers both complete repairs and part-specific solutions. Still, we understand our pricing may not fit everyone’s budget. That's why we encourage you to consider DIY fixes whenever possible. You can search for tutorials on our YouTube homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) using the magnifying glass icon near the "About" tab to find relevant videos.

Thank you again for your detailed inquiry. We’re honored to be a resource for your DTF printing setup and are always here to help however we can.