Understanding and Resolving Epson EcoTank Error 000031 After Installing a DTF CISS System

Question:

Why am I getting Error 000031 on my Epson EcoTank printer after installing a DTF CISS? The printer now makes a screeching sound during startup.

Answer:

What Causes Error 000031 on Epson EcoTank Printers?

Error 000031 is a generic hardware error typically associated with the printhead carriage or the Auto Paper Gap (APG) mechanism. It often appears when the printer detects an abnormality in the mechanical components during startup or printing. When a screeching or grinding sound accompanies this error, it strongly suggests that the moving parts are under physical stress or encountering resistance.

In the context of installing a DTF CISS, the issue almost always comes down to added weight and balance problems. Here’s a breakdown of what’s likely going wrong:

Impact of the CISS on Printhead Movement

When you install a CISS, you're introducing extra tubes filled with ink and additional hardware. This system adds considerable weight and drag to the printhead carriage. If not carefully routed and balanced, this weight can:

• Press down unevenly on the APG mechanism—a sensitive part responsible for adjusting paper thickness.

• Impair free movement of the carriage across the guide rod.

• This causes the carriage to misalign during initialization, which leads the printer to trigger Error 000031.

This additional strain can also result in the startup screeching sound, which is usually caused by the stepper motor failing to move the carriage smoothly due to friction or an obstruction.

Potential Fixes and Workarounds

Here are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:

1. Check and Rebalance the CISS Tubing:

   • Ensure the ink tubes have sufficientslack and are not too tight when the carriage moves from left to right.

   • Use a tube support bracket or clip system to hold the tubing in an arc that follows the carriage motion naturally.

   • Consider using adhesive tape or zip ties to shift the tube anchor point closer to the center, thereby reducing leverage on the carriage.

2. Inspect the APG Mechanism:

   • If the added weight from the CISS is pushing down on the APG, you might need to elevate the tubing slightly or reduce pressure points on the printhead carriage assembly.

   • One user shared a creative workaround involving taping the APG arm into a fixed position to prevent it from being weighed down, as detailed in the video "Error 000031 Epson ET-8550 DTF Workaround" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZImxOQYgcQ).

3. Watch for Motor Overload:

   • The startup screeching may come from the carriage stepper motor struggling to move the assembly. This indicates excessive mechanical load.

   • Try manually sliding the carriage (with the printer off) to ensure it glides smoothly.

4. Examine for Obstructions or Snags:

   • Check that the CISS tubes are not catching on the printer cover, rails, or internal brackets.

   • Make sure there are no foreign objects inside the printer.

Additional Support

Addressing printer issues can be a complicated affair due to the hands-on nature of the problems. Therefore, we're unable to provide remote troubleshooting, suggestions, or support for printer repairs. We offer an in-person evaluation and repair service via our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Given the high demand, we operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and it may take a few weeks before we can schedule your printer for drop-off.

Our services are structured to repair either a whole printer or specific parts, with clear instructions on how to proceed. However, we acknowledge that our rates aren't the most economical. Thus, we recommend that you resort to self-help via online research. You can start by checking out YouTube or visiting our YouTube channel's homepage (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Look for specific videos using the search icon next to "About" on the right-hand side of the menu bar. I receive dozens of queries every day asking about videos for specific topics. Having created videos over the past nine years, it's challenging to remember every single one. Therefore, using YouTube's search function would be the most efficient approach. Additionally, YouTube may suggest relevant videos from other channels that can assist you.

Thank you again for reaching out; we appreciate your continued trust in BCH Technologies. We hope this helps you move closer to resolving the issue with your printer!