Epson Printer Error 000033: How to Release a Stuck Printhead Without Disassembly

Question:
My Epson printer is showing error code 000033, and the printhead is stuck all the way to the right. I tried to move it manually, but now it seems completely jammed. Is there a way to release the printhead without taking the printer apart?

Answer:

We also want to express our appreciation for your engagement and continued support, especially through our BCH Technologies YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Your questions and feedback are invaluable-they help us refine our expertise and produce more helpful, hands-on tutorials for printer owners like you.

Now, let's address the issue you're facing.

1. Understanding Error Code 000033

The Epson error code 000033 typically appears when the printer's carriage (printhead assembly) cannot move freely along the rail. This can happen if:

• The printhead is jammed in the parked position on the right-hand side,

• The paper feed (PF) motor or PF rod is under torque and cannot release, or

• There's a buildup of dried ink or debris around the capping station or rail that's holding the printhead in place.

When the printer detects this restriction, it immediately halts operation and triggers the 000033 error to prevent damage to the carriage motor.

2. How to Manually Release the Printhead Without Disassembly

Fortunately, there's a simple way to release the printhead without taking your Epson printer apart:

1. Power off the printer completely and unplug it from the wall outlet. This ensures that no electrical current is holding the carriage in place.

2. Gently push the printhead all the way to the right-it may already be there, but ensure it's fully seated.

3. Locate the PF rod (paper feed rod). It's the metal bar that runs horizontally through the paper feed roller.

4. Turn the PF rod counterclockwise three full turns. This manually releases the torque in the paper feed mechanism, allowing the carriage lock to disengage.

After turning the PF rod, try to slide the printhead gently toward the center. If it moves freely, you've successfully released the mechanical lock. Once freed, you can power the printer back on to see if the error clears automatically.

If the printhead still won't move, avoid forcing it-it could be jammed by dried ink near the capping station or held by the locking mechanism. In that case, a light cleaning of the area with a lint-free cloth and a bit of isopropyl alcohol (while the printer remains unplugged) may help.

3. Preventing Future Carriage Lock Issues

Once your printhead is moving again, it's important to keep the carriage rail clean and lubricated with a small amount of silicone-based grease or light machine oil. This helps prevent the rail from sticking, which can trigger similar errors in the future.

You should also avoid powering off the printer while the carriage is mid-movement. Always allow the printer to complete its initialization process, as interrupting it can cause the carriage to stop in an unparked position, leading to alignment or jamming issues later on.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable to provide remote troubleshooting or one-on-one support for repairs. However, we do offer in-person evaluation and repair services through our BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take a few weeks before your printer can be dropped off. Our repair services can address either full printer systems or specific parts, depending on your needs.

For DIY enthusiasts, we recommend exploring self-help resources on our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the "About" tab to find tutorials related to your printer model and error codes. With over nine years of video archives, searching specific terms like "Epson 000033 error" or "printhead stuck" will bring up helpful step-by-step guides from us and other reliable creators.

Thank you again for your patience, trust, and for being an active part of the BCH Technologies community. We truly value your continued engagement-it's what helps us keep sharing reliable, detailed support for printer users around the world.