How to Fix Ink Flow Loss and Carriage Stall Errors in Epson Printers: Capping Station Repair and Maintenance Guide

Question:
My printer keeps losing ink flow, frequently needs priming, and sometimes makes a thud sound with both error lights flashing. What could be causing this issue, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Now, regarding your question-based on your description, it sounds like the issue is linked to the capping station and suction system inside your printer. The capping station's job is to seal the printhead when the printer is idle, keeping the nozzles moist and maintaining ink flow through suction during cleaning cycles. When it fails to form a proper seal or loses pressure, several symptoms may appear, including:

• Frequent priming or head cleaning cycles that don't restore ink flow.

• Ink starvation during printing, where the printhead suddenly stops outputting ink.

• A thud sound followed by both error lights flashing, which can indicate a carriage stall due to resistance caused by poor suction or ink overflow near the printhead area.

These symptoms suggest that the capping pump is not creating adequate vacuum pressure or that the tubes leading to the pump may be partially clogged. To address this, I recommend starting with the following steps and video guides:

1. Inspect and clean the capping station - Watch Unclogging the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/WbY_6O1-w2c). This guide shows how to remove buildup or dried ink that prevents the capping pad from sealing properly.

2. Remove and reinstall the capping unit - See Removing and Installing the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/_cZEkmgIZYc). This video demonstrates how to take out the capping station and reinstall it correctly. If the procedure feels too complex, consider having a technician perform this repair.

3. Maintain the capping station regularly - Over time, ink residue and dust can reduce suction performance. Check out Capping Station Maintenance (https://youtu.be/5yjq3ZN0qv8) for routine upkeep tips.

4. Troubleshoot suction problems - If the capping station doesn't seem to pull ink during cleaning, you can follow Repairing the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/5UC2IMu9V90) to fix common pump and seal issues.

5. Rewire or replace clogged tubing - Ink buildup inside the tubes can block suction completely. Learn how to fix it with Rewiring Capping Station Tubes (https://youtu.be/J9im3s8UJfo).

If none of these steps solve the issue, you may need to go deeper into the mechanism. We offer an exclusive video guide that demonstrates full disassembly and reassembly of the capping station, including internal gears and seals. You can find it here: Capping Station Assemble/Disassemble Guide for Epson L1800, 1390, Artisan 1430, and 1400 (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/video-capping-station-assemble-disassemble-guide-for-l1800-1390-artisan-1430-and-1400).

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it may take a few weeks before we can receive your printer for drop-off. Our services are structured to repair either an entire printer or specific components, and we provide clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we understand that our rates may not be the most economical option. That's why we highly recommend exploring self-help solutions through online resources. You can start by visiting our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar to find videos related to your model or issue. YouTube may also suggest related videos from other channels that could offer additional guidance.

Thank you again for taking the time to reach out and for being an active part of our community. We truly appreciate your support and look forward to helping you keep your printer running smoothly!