Maintaining a Used Epson 8550 on Sublimation Ink for Standard Ink

Question:

I recently bought a used Epson 8550 that was previously used with sublimation ink. I need to convert it to conventional ink and perform extensive service. How would I go about cleaning and refurbishing the printer? If so, do you have other maintenance suggestions? What challenges may I face based on its prior use with sublimation ink?

Answer:

Cleaning and Restoring the Printer

A. Clean the System of the Sublimation Ink

• Take out the Sublimation Ink Cartridges: The first step is to remove all the sublimation ink cartridges that come with the printer.
• Clean the Printhead: Connect a syringe to the ink inlet tubes with a cleaning solution specially made for Epson printers; carefully force the cleaning fluid through the printhead until the liquid comes out clear.
• Next, perform a more thorough cleaning process by washing out the ink lines: disconnect the ink lines from the printhead, and while leaving the printhead sitting in the cleaning solution, flush the ink lines to remove any remaining sublimation ink.
• Clean the Capping Station and Waste Ink Pad: Remove the capping station and soak it in a cleaning solution to dissolve dried ink. Examine the waste ink pad and replace it if it is saturated.
  

B. Standard Ink Cartridges

• Flush out the system before swapping it out and inserting the new standard ink for the Epson 8550.
• Run several cleaning cycles via the printer’s maintenance menu to prime the system with the new ink.

C. Perform a Nozzle Check

• For checking, print a nozzle check pattern and ensure that all ink channels are clear and the printhead is working correctly.
• If any nozzles are clogged, run more cleaning cycles or manually clean the printhead again.

Additional Maintenance Recommendations

• Lubricate Moving Parts: Using a printer-safe lubricant to keep the printer's rails and other moving components running smoothly.
• Inspect and Replace Worn Parts: Examine the feed rollers for signs of wear and replace them if necessary. Also, check the maintenance box (waste ink tank) and change it if it’s complete.
• Update Printer Firmware: Keep the printer's firmware updated to prevent compatibility issues with the new ink cartridges.
• Make sure to calibrate the printer. It should be appropriately aligned and produce the perfect colors.

Disclaimer for Previous Use of Sublimation Ink

• Printhead Blockage: If sublimation ink is poorly maintained, it can dry up and block the printhead. If cleaning does not resolve sullying issues, be prepared to devote additional cleanup time or possibly replace the printhead.
• Ink Contamination: The sublimation ink can remain in the system and blend with standard ink, potentially compromising print quality. To prevent this, thorough flushing is essential.
• Wear and tear: Sublimation printers experience higher wear and tear because the ink is more viscous. Examine the printer for signs of mechanical wear.
  
• Waste Ink System: The waste ink pad might quickly fill with sublimation ink. Check and clean or replace waste ink pads or maintenance boxes.

Expert Advice

• Don't Rush: If you clean too quickly and rush through the process, you risk not cleaning off all the ink or damaging the printer. Be patient and thorough.
• Invest in Quality Inks and Cleaning Solutions. Using inexpensive or incompatible ink or cleaning solutions can aggravate the problem. Stick to reputable brands.
• Monitor Print Quality: Track Print Quality for the first few weeks after conversion. If you see any problems (such as streaks or missing colors), correct them immediately to avoid permanent damage.
• Seek Professional Assistance: If you are uncertain about any part of the process or face continual difficulties, consider contacting a professional technician specializing in Epson printers.
  

Further Support & Resources

Printer problems can be a complex task to address because of the tactile nature of the problems. As a result, we cannot offer remote troubleshooting, options, or printer repair support. However, we do provide an in-person diagnostic and repair service via our local diagnostic facility. For any of your professional needs, visit Printer Repair Service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service)

Due to high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so it can take several weeks before your printer is assessed. We provide full-fledged printer and website component repairs, telling you what to do and when. However, our repair rates may not be the cheapest available. That’s why we always recommend that you try self-help solutions through online sources.

Our YouTube channel ( https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies ) is a great starting point. You can search by topic on our YouTube homepage by clicking the search icon for issues following to the “About” tab. This search function is the easiest way to find relevant tutorials when you have this many videos (9+ years of videos now!). Moreover, other helpful videos from different channels are available on YouTube’s algorithms, which can help you even more.

Thank you again for your continued support and understanding. Let me know if you need anything else. Happy printing!