How to Restore HP 5740 and 2700e Printers - Refilling Cartridges and Cleaning Clogged Printheads Safely

Question:
I have several HP printers (G-85, two 8500s, 5740, and the newer 2700e), but none are currently working except my old 600. I want to get at least the HP 5740 and 2700e running again because I have upcoming printing tasks. I plan to order your ink refill kits - specifically the EZ30-T and AS-SPG-HP6061 - and I saw in one of your videos how you removed the sponge and interior plastic walls. Does your refill kit include the clear plastic top with the little rubber refill nozzle, and will strong tape alone hold it on securely, or is super glue needed?

Also, will that refill ink work for my HP 5740 and 2700e printers? Lastly, since these printers have been idle for a while and I suspect the printheads are clogged, could I clean them by refilling old cartridges with a mixture of warm distilled water, alcohol, and a bit of liquid soap, then running several test prints (about 8-10 times)? Would that clean the printheads safely without damaging the printers?

Answer:

1. About the Refill Kits (EZ30-T and AS-SPG-HP6061)

The EZ30-T refill kit is our universal refill system designed for standard HP inkjet cartridges. It includes high-quality refill ink, needles, and other necessary tools for safe and clean refilling. The AS-SPG-HP6061 sponge replacement kit is specifically for restoring older HP cartridges that use sponges (like HP 60, 61, 62, 63, and similar series).

These kits are compatible with both the HP DeskJet 5740 and HP 2700e printers, assuming you are using their standard cartridge types (such as HP 62, HP 63, or HP 65 series).

The kits do not include a clear plastic top with a rubber refill nozzle, since these parts are primarily shown in modification videos where we demonstrate how to convert cartridges into refillable versions. If you want to replicate that setup, you can reuse a clear lid from an empty cartridge or use a refill port plug.

When securing the cover:

• Strong tape is usually sufficient, as long as the cartridge is clean and dry before applying it.

• Avoid super glue-it can release fumes that corrode microelectronic contacts inside the cartridge and may cause leaks or block the vent channel.

If you'd like a more durable option, a silicone adhesive sealant (applied sparingly) can work, as it creates a flexible, airtight bond without hardening permanently.

2. Compatibility of the Ink

Yes, BCH refill inks are fully compatible with both your HP 5740 and 2700e printers. These inks are formulated to match the viscosity and color profile of OEM HP inks, ensuring stable nozzle flow and accurate color reproduction.

For older HP models like the 5740, the ink formula also helps prevent clogging after periods of inactivity. Just make sure to run one or two cleaning cycles after refilling to stabilize ink flow before doing a full test print.

3. Cleaning Clogged Printheads

You're absolutely right to suspect that inactivity is the main cause of your printhead problems. HP's built-in thermal printheads tend to dry up or crystalize when left unused for long periods. However, while your proposed cleaning solution of warm distilled water, isopropyl alcohol, and mild soap is a creative approach, it's important to note a few things:

• Alcohol can dry out the internal sponge or foam pad in the cartridge, reducing its ability to hold ink properly.

• Soap residue can leave a film inside the nozzle plate, which might affect print quality.

• Over-saturating the cartridge with liquid can cause electrical shorts or overheating during operation.

A safer and more effective method is to use a dedicated printhead cleaner designed for HP thermal cartridges. These cleaners dissolve dried pigments without damaging the thermal resistors. BCH Technologies offers such solutions that can be injected through the refill port or applied via a printhead soaking tray.

If you still prefer a DIY option, you can do this instead:

1. Mix 80% warm distilled water and 20% isopropyl alcohol (70%) - no soap.

2. Fill the cartridge slightly and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.

3. Blot the printhead gently on a paper towel until you see clean ink flow.

4. Reinstall and run 2-3 cleaning cycles instead of 8-10 to avoid overheating the nozzles.

If this doesn't restore proper flow, you may need to replace the cartridge, since HP's integrated printheads are not designed for disassembly or deep cleaning.

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. So, we're not able to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer in-person evaluation and repair services 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 process your printer for drop-off. Our repair services can target either specific parts or the entire printer, depending on your needs.

However, we encourage self-help through online research and video tutorials. Visit our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) and use the search icon next to "About" to find videos related to HP cartridge refilling, sponge replacement, and printhead cleaning. After nine years of creating tutorials, that search function is the quickest way to locate the right video. YouTube might also recommend related videos from other channels that could help.

Thank you again for your patience and for your kind words about our work. We truly appreciate your support and wish you success in getting your HP printers back up and running!