Fixing Ink Flow Issues on the Epson ET-8550 After Cleaning

Question:
I cleaned up the build-up ink in my Epson ET-8550, but now I’m not getting any ink coming out. How can I prime the cartridges on this printer?

Answer:

Before starting the priming process, ensure the printhead is parked on the capping station. Leave the printer on and allow the printhead to settle into place on its own; this is okay with the power on. Since you are using DTF ink, which is a thicker than standard ink, the printhead may need some extra assistance to get that ink flowing. After parking the printhead, you’ll want to hook up a syringe and hose to the printer’s waste line. Draw 2 ml of air into the syringe gently. Pull back approximately 1.5 ml — you should now feel some resistance. You are only drawing air with no point of resistance, this indicates the printhead may not be parked correctly or there is a leak within the capping station seal.

If you feel full resistance and can’t pull any air, it’s possible the capping station is gunked up because that is what provides the printhead with the ability to prime properly. If so, the capping station will need to be cleaned or replaced. At this moment, as you aspirate the 1.5 ml of air, you will probably hear a crinkling sound in the damned membrane, which implies that the nozzles are getting ready. Slow 2 ml to the full and hold for 10 sec. Lastly, run the printer’s regular cleaning cycle (don’t perform a strong cleaning for the first 12 hours). You also don’t want to run cleanings one after the other without giving the printer a chance to rest.

It can be a tricky affair to address printer issues as the problems are physical in nature. So we are unable to give any remote troubleshooting, recommendation, or support for printer repairs. Through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) we provide an in-person evaluation and repair service. It is on a first-come, first serve basis due to the volume of people having the same issue, so it may take a few weeks before we can arrange for you to drop your printer off. With this, our services can be split into either repairing a complete printer, or any individual components, but will always have clear solutions on the next steps to take. But we know we aren’t the cheapest.” So, we strongly advise that you do some self-help by researching online. To begin, explore YouTube, or see our YouTube Channel homepage category: (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) specific videos can be found with the search icon next to the word "about" on the right of the menu bar. I get dozens of inquiries every day asking if I have videos on certain topics. Having made videos the last nine years, it's a struggle to recall each and everyone. So, it would be most efficient using YouTube’s search function. Additionally, YouTube may recommend some relevant videos from other channels that could be helpful to you.