Epson L1800 Printer Outputs Blank Pages After Head Cleaning – Troubleshooting and Fixes

Question:
My Epson L1800 printer was printing flawlessly until I performed a routine head cleaning. After the cleaning, two blinking lights appeared, prompting me to replace the mainboard. I briefly experienced double-printing issues that resolved after resetting. However, since then, colors began fading progressively, and now the printer only prints blank pages. The printhead appears unclogged, and I've already replaced the cable connecting the head to the mainboard. The F1 fuse on multiple mainboards has tested fine. There are no error codes displayed. What steps should I take next?

Answer:

Likely Causes and Solutions

Your description strongly suggests an ink delivery or printhead priming problem, especially common when using thicker inks like DTF ink. Here’s a detailed guide to resolving this issue:

Step 1: Manual Priming of the Printhead

To manually prime your printhead effectively:

• Turn the printer on and allow the printhead to park automatically on the capping station.

• Attach a syringe and tube to the waste ink line.

• Gently draw about 1.5 ml of air; resistance should indicate ink flow.

  • If only air comes through, the printhead may not be seated correctly or the capping station isn’t sealing properly.

  • No ink flow suggests a clog within the capping station itself.

• Continue slowly pulling up to about 2 ml and hold the vacuum for roughly 10 seconds.

• Afterward, run a standard cleaning cycle once. Avoid performing back-to-back or aggressive cleanings for at least 12 hours.

Step 2: Inspecting and Servicing the Capping Station

Since your printer isn't transferring ink onto paper even with a clean printhead and a functional mainboard, inspect your capping station thoroughly. A failing capping station prevents proper priming and leads to blank prints.

We recommend watching the following videos for comprehensive guidance:

• 🔧 Removing & Installing the Capping Station

• 💨 Unclogging the Capping Station

• 🧼 Capping Station Maintenance Tips

• 🛠️ Repairing the Capping Station

• 🧪 Rewiring the Capping Station Tubes

Additionally, our Complete Video Guide provides a detailed breakdown of the capping station’s components and gear assembly.

Step 3: Checking the F1 Fuse and Driver Chip (SOP28)

Given your mainboard fuse checks, it's essential to consider the printer’s SOP28 Driver Chip, particularly if ink channels aren’t firing:

Inspecting the F1 Fuse:

• Locate the F1 fuse marked "F1" on your printer's mainboard.

• Use a multimeter set to continuity mode to test the fuse:

  • A beep indicates a functioning fuse; silence indicates a blown fuse.

• Replace a blown fuse with an identical fuse (same amperage and voltage rating).

Evaluating the SOP28 Driver Chip:

• Symptoms of a damaged driver chip include:

  • Ink channels not firing or spraying ink properly.

  • Printhead heating but failing to spray ink.

• Consider replacing this chip if fuse and ink-flow troubleshooting has failed.

• Replacement requires precision soldering. If you're unfamiliar with this, professional repair services are recommended.

Due to the inherently hands-on nature of printer repairs, we're unable to offer remote troubleshooting or detailed remote assistance. However, we provide comprehensive in-person evaluations and repairs at our local repair facility. Please note, appointments operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and scheduling may take several weeks. Our diagnostic services clearly outline repairs either for whole printers or specific components. Although our rates might not be the most economical, we strongly recommend leveraging self-help resources online. A good starting point is our extensive video library available on our YouTube channel. To efficiently find relevant videos, use the search icon located next to the "About" section on our YouTube channel’s homepage. YouTube’s powerful search function will help quickly identify specific troubleshooting guides and may also suggest helpful content from other creators.

Thanks again for your detailed question and continued support. Your interaction helps us continuously refine and enhance our troubleshooting resources!