Question:
In your video about removing and replacing the Epson ET-15000 printhead, what should I do if my printer won't move the printhead when it starts up because of an error? How can I manually move it without damaging anything?
(Watch the video here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EA5ij6U0x6Y&lc=Ugy4NX0BhArfXYcYVhl4AaABAg)
Answer:
When your Epson ET-15000 encounters a critical error code (such as 0x9A, 0x97, or similar startup errors), the printer often locks the carriage assembly in place. This lock is part of the safety mechanism that prevents the printhead from moving while the printer is powered on or mid-cycle. However, if your printer cannot move the printhead automatically due to an error, you can manually release it with care.
Here's a detailed step-by-step process:
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Unplug the printer completely.
Make sure the power cord is disconnected. The carriage motor can resist manual movement if it's still connected to power, even if the printer is "off." -
Open the top cover and gently push the printhead to the right.
You may feel some resistance initially. This is due to the carriage lock mechanism. Push it slightly-not forcefully-to shift it away from the parked position. -
Manually rotate the paper feed rod (roller) counterclockwise.
Look for the gray or white rod running across the back of the carriage assembly (the paper feed roller). Using your fingers, turn it counterclockwise several times. This motion helps release the internal printhead locking gear that holds the printhead in its "home" position. -
Check if the printhead is now movable.
Once the lock disengages, you should be able to move the printhead assembly freely from right to left. Move it slowly across the rail to ensure there's no friction or blockage. -
Inspect the carriage rail for obstructions.
If the printhead is still not moving even after unlocking, carefully check for paper scraps, dried ink residue, or loose cables along the carriage path. Any of these could jam the rail or obstruct sensor movement. -
Lubricate and clean if necessary.
If you find dried ink buildup or rough motion along the rail, you can apply a small amount of light machine oil or silicone lubricant to the metal carriage bar. Avoid over-lubrication, as excess oil can contaminate the encoder strip. -
Restart the printer to test.
After verifying that the printhead can move freely, reconnect power and turn the printer on. It should initialize normally, and the carriage will move to its startup position.
If you still encounter the same error code (e.g., 0x9A) after these steps, it may indicate a carriage drive motor issue, a sensor fault, or a jammed encoder strip-all of which would require more in-depth service or disassembly.
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 detailed repair support. However, we do offer in-person evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks before we can work on your printer. Our services are designed to repair entire printers or specific parts, with clear step-by-step instructions on how to proceed.
For DIY enthusiasts, we highly recommend exploring self-help resources on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon located next to "About" on our channel's menu bar to quickly find videos covering your specific printer model or issue. We've built a library of videos over the last nine years, and YouTube's search function is the fastest way to locate the exact tutorial you need.
Thank you again for reaching out and for your continued support of BCH Technologies. We appreciate your patience and commitment to learning more about maintaining your Epson printer!