What Causes Epson ET-8550 Error 000031 and Screeching Noises After Installing a DTF CISS?

Question:

My Epson ET-8550 started making screeching noises on startup and is now showing Error Code 000031. This issue occurred after I installed a DTF continuous ink supply system (CISS). What’s causing this problem, and how can I fix it?

Answer:

Understanding Error Code 000031 on the Epson ET-8550

Error 000031 is a general hardware error that most often relates to the printhead carriage system or the APG (Auto Paper Gap) sensor and lock mechanism. If you’re also hearing a loud screeching sound at startup, it’s a clear indication that the carriage is struggling to move smoothly along its rail.

Likely Cause: Continuous Ink System (CISS) Interference

Since you've recently installed a DTF CISS (Continuous Ink Supply System), this is likely the root of the issue.

• Added Weight and Imbalance:
  The additional tubing and bulk of the CISS change the mass and balance of the printhead carriage. Epson printers are calibrated to move with particular resistance levels. Extra weight causes mechanical drag that can interfere with the carriage motor or belt.

• Restricted Carriage Movement:
  If the tubes are too stiff or not positioned correctly, they can physically block or resist the movement of the printhead, leading to grinding noises and APG detection failure.

• APG Lock Sensor Issues:
  The Auto Paper Gap system checks for proper positioning during startup. If the printhead doesn’t move as expected, the printer flags a failure and throws Error 000031.

How to Fix It

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Inspect Tubing Position:
   Make sure the CISS tubes are not too tight or pulling against the carriage. Leave enough slack so the printhead can move entirely left and right without resistance.

2. Check for Printhead Resistance:
   With the printer powered off, gently slide the carriage manually across the rail. If it catches or feels uneven, investigate the drag points—often where tubing crosses over or rubs against internal parts.

3. Clean and Lubricate the Carriage Rail:
   Use a small amount of non-conductive silicone grease or printer-safe oil to lubricate the carriage rod. This can help reduce startup resistance.

4. Secure the CISS System Properly:
   Ensure the ink tanks are positioned at the same level as the printhead and that the tubing does not become tangled when the carriage moves. Use clips or holders to route the tubing along a consistent, non-restrictive path.

5. Reset the Printer (Optional):
   After checking the hardware, unplug the printer for 2–3 minutes, plug it back in, and power it on. In some cases, this clears the error once physical conditions are corrected.

Related Resource:

You may also find our video walkthrough helpful:
What's Causing Your EcoTank Error 000031? - Startup Screeching Kind
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZImxOQYgcQ)

Additional Support Options

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 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. So, it might take a few weeks before we can get your printer to drop it 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 highly 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 most efficient. Plus, YouTube might suggest relevant videos from other channels that could assist you.

Thanks again for your question, and we hope this helps get your ET-8550 running smoothly again!