How to Fix Fuse-Related Errors on Epson ET-8550 and L18050: Questions & Answers

Question

A customer asked whether the same fuse-replacement method shown in our video-How to Replace F1 & F2 Fuses on Epson ET-8550 - Fix Error 031006 Fast!-also applies to the Epson L18050. The concern was whether the fuse procedure and error-code behavior are identical between these two models.

Answer

Regarding your question: Yes-this method also works for the Epson L18050.
The L18050 is essentially the ET-8550 without the scanner assembly, and internally they share the same board architecture, fuse arrangement, and error-response logic. This means the fuse locations (F1 and F2), the failure symptoms, and the recovery procedures are nearly identical.

Understanding the Error Code: 031006

Error 031006 on the ET-8550-and similarly on the L18050-is typically triggered by a blown fuse on the mainboard. These fuses protect critical subsystems such as:

• Carriage motor circuit

• Printhead driver circuit

• CR encoder/transport system

• Power delivery to key sensors

A sudden short, liquid contamination, ribbon-cable damage, or a failed printhead can all cause these protective fuses to blow.

When one of these fuses fails, the printer detects an abnormal voltage or current profile and immediately locks the system, resulting in:

• Error 031006

• Failure to initialize

• Printhead not moving

• Power cycling without improvement

This is why fuse replacement is an effective solution.

Why the L18050 Uses the Same Fix

The L18050's motherboard layout is nearly identical to the ET-8550:

• Same fuse identifiers (F1 & F2)

• Same amperage and form factor

• Same controller pathways

• Same failure modes

The absence of the scanner unit does not affect the fuse protection circuits tied to carriage movement or printhead power. So the fuse-replacement tutorial from the ET-8550 applies directly to the L18050.

You may refer to the video titled "How to Replace F1 & F2 Fuses on Epson ET-8550 - Fix Error 031006 Fast!" on our channel if you need a walkthrough. Here is the link to the video on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlZTkC_X0dA&lc=Ugyx4rX8O3gNrp3H8ql4AaABAg).

Additional Notes for Fuse Replacement

• Always use the correct micro-fuse rating (typically 1-2A SMD fuses; verify with multimeter or printer documentation).

• Inspect nearby components for damage-blown fuses are usually symptoms, not root causes.

• Check the printhead ribbon cable for burn marks, bent pins, or ink contamination.

• Ensure the carriage moves freely and the CR motor connectors are firm.

• If the fuse blows again immediately, the printhead or motor driver may be shorted and require replacement.

Addressing printer issues often requires hands-on diagnostics, physical testing, and precise measurements. Because of this, we aren't able to offer remote troubleshooting or detailed step-by-step repair support. However, we do provide in-person evaluation and repair services through our diagnostic facility, which you can access here: BCH Technologies Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). We operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and due to high demand, wait times may be a few weeks. Our services include full-unit repairs or part-specific repairs with clear instructions, though we understand our pricing may not be the most economical.

For many customers, self-guided repair remains the most practical option. You can explore YouTube-including our own channel home page (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies)-and use the search icon next to "About" to find videos on your specific topic. Because we've produced videos for nearly nine years, it's difficult to recall all topics from memory, so searching directly on YouTube is typically the fastest approach. YouTube may also recommend helpful videos from other creators.

Thank you again for your question and for being part of our community. We appreciate your support and engagement, and we're always glad to help guide you in the right direction.