Troubleshooting Epson P800: Loud Screeching, Blurred Prints, and Error Code 0x1121

Question:

After explaining my issue, a printer professional referred me to your channel. I’ve had an Epson P800, what seems like forever now, since 2016, an excellent workhorse, and it has printed without an issue daily. But I recently noticed it has clicked, and now it screeches loudly. The printer shakes, occasionally spitting out a blurry print, and now it refuses to print altogether. Instead, it screams, claws to a halt, freezes, and spits a code at me about shutting it down and starting it back up. [1625163] (Error Code: 0x1121)` Restarting the printer hasn’t fixed the problem.

Because I rely on this printer for my income, I require an expedient solution. The nearest Epson repair place is too far to drive to, and I was quoted a minimum of $400 to repair it. Is this issue fixable? Could I fix it myself or have someone come to my location? Also, what should I be doing in the meantime to prevent any further damage?

Answer:

Understanding the Problem: Screeching Noise and Error Code 0x1121

The screeching sound indicates that the printhead carriage return path is obstructed. A foreign object in the track might cause the CRS malfunction, but it could also be caused by a mechanical failure or problems with the CR motor and other parts.

The 0x1121 error code is usually related to a carriage return failure — a mechanical restriction or too much friction during printhead movement is detected by the printer's system.

How to Troubleshoot and Repair the Issue

Ensure the Carriage Path is Clear of Obstructions

Turn on the printer. When the printhead starts to move, immediately turn off the printer.

Check to see if anything blocks the printhead by manually moving it left and right. The printhead itself should slide easily along the rail.

You find no paper inside the printer, ink buildup, or foreign items blocking the carriage path.

If you see any debris, gently remove it with tweezers or compressed air.

Check for Carriage Return Belt and Motor

Ensure that the driven pulley is working correctly and that the carriage does not have too much resistance when you push it manually.

In the case of any wear or a belt that is too loose, you should change the belt.

CR Scan Path Counter Reset

Error code 0x1121 may imply that the CR scan route counter has reached its extreme and that the printer has recorded many passes and thinks it requires some upkeep.

This problem can be solved by resetting the CR scan path counter using the Epson SC-P800 Adjustment Program.

However, you can search online for the SC-P800 Adjustment Program. You can also log in to a source to download this professional document.

Check the Ink Supply Tube and Carriage Unit

After replacing an Ink Supply Tube, it's essential to reset the counter, as the printer tracks wear over time.

Also, inspect the Carriage Unit and the Head FFC (flexible flat cable) for cracks or breaks. If the wires are broken or worn out, they could be causing erratic behavior.

Replace Worn Parts if Necessary

However, if after doing the above checks, the printer continues to make loud noises and also is not able to print, then you might need to replace the below-mentioned parts:

• CR Motor Assembly
• Driven Pulley
• Carriage Belt
• Carriage Unit
• Head FFC Cable

Next Steps

If any of these components are damaged, replacing them might fix the problem. However, repair can be complicated since the SC-P800 is a professional-class printer. If you’re uncomfortable dealing with internal components, you may want to consider professional repair.

Unfortunately, fixing printer issues can be tricky because the problems are often physical. Unfortunately, that means we cannot provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repair. Through our local diagnostic facility, we provide (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service) an in-person evaluation and repair service. Because demand is so high, we’ll triage on a first-come, first-served basis, and it could take several weeks to check your printer in for a fix. We offer complete printer repair services and certain parts with instructions on processing your printer repair. But we will advise you that our fees might not be the most economical. So we strongly recommend seeking self-help through an Internet search.

You can find many on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). The search icon next to About on the menu bar allows you to find specific videos. I’ve been on the platform for more than nine years and can’t remember every video, so using the search function on YouTube itself will surely give you the quickest method to locate pertinent information. YouTube might also recommend videos from other channels that might help you.

Thank you very much for your patience and participation. This guide should assist you in diagnosing and solving your Epson P800 problems. Check out this YouTube channel we created, run by your fellow students, or come back for more if you need more. Good luck, and thanks for being there!