Why Your Epson L1800 Feeds Paper but Won't Roll It Through (Q&A Guide + Fixes)

Question: My Epson L1800 will feed paper, but it won't roll the sheet all the way through. I recently disassembled the machine and cleaned the capping station. What should I check to diagnose the problem?

Answer:

Based on what you described, your Epson L1800 is feeding the paper but stopping halfway through the roll. Since you mentioned that the printhead is not moving toward the edge of the page, we can rule out the PW (Paper Width) sensor as the source of the problem.

Additionally, because the paper has already passed the PE (Paper End) sensor, your next diagnostic steps should focus on the PE sensor circuit and related components. Here's a detailed breakdown to help you pinpoint the issue:

1. Check Whether the PE Sensor Has Been Bypassed

Some DTF or modified printers use an add-on board to override or "bypass" the PE sensor. If your unit has such a board installed:

• The board may be malfunctioning.

• This type of board is often called a breakout board or driver board.

• A faulty breakout board can prevent the printer from recognizing the paper's movement, causing the partial feed and halt you're experiencing.

If you do have a bypass board installed:
➡️ Inspect it for loose connections, burnt spots, bent pins, or corrosion.

If you do not have a bypass board:
➡️ Move to Step 2.

2. Confirm the PE Sensor Is Connected Properly

If you are using the stock Epson hardware:

• Make sure the PE sensor cable is fully seated.

• Check that the sensor is not dirty, misaligned, or blocked.

• Inspect the cable ribbon for tears or oxidation.

A disconnected or misaligned PE sensor is a very common cause of half-feeds.

3. Consider Corruption on the Mainboard ROM

If the sensors and their connections are in good shape, your issue may be caused by:

• Corrupted ROM firmware on the mainboard

• Logic failure within the onboard microcontroller

To confirm this, the fastest method is to borrow another mainboard and test your printer with it. If the problem disappears, your mainboard is the culprit.

4. Retrieve the Printer's Error Code Using the Epson Adjustment Program

Even if the printer isn't showing an error on the panel, the internal log may contain a crucial clue. To retrieve the hidden error codes:

1. Open the Epson Adjustment Program.

2. Select your printer's USB port from the dropdown.

3. Choose Particular Adjustment Mode.

4. Scroll down and select Printer Information Check.

5. Click Check - the most recent error will appear as Error #1.

These internal errors often reference systems like the APG sensor, carriage motor, or paper feed logic, giving you a direction for repair.

➡️ For interpretation, search "BCH Epson Error" on Google. It will lead you to our reference page explaining Epson's Triple Secret Error Codes.

➡️ If you don't have the Adjustment Program, it's sometimes distributed by third-party DTF sellers. You may need to search online to locate a copy.

For a visual walkthrough of the process, follow this short video:
How to Check Epson Error Codes - (Watch the video - https://youtube.com/shorts/FPZzpyYuZLE)

A Quick Note About Repair Support

Printer repair can be deeply hands-on and varies from unit to unit, so we're unable to offer remote troubleshooting or hands-on guidance beyond general suggestions. If you need in-person help, we offer a diagnostic and repair service at our local facility (Printer Repair Service - https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service).
Please note that due to high demand, repairs are handled first-come, first-served and may take several weeks. Our services cover full-unit repairs as well as specific component repairs. That said, our rates may not be the most affordable, so we strongly encourage exploring DIY solutions and online resources first.

A great place to start is YouTube - including our own channel. On the BCH Technologies YouTube homepage (BCH Technologies YouTube - https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies), use the search icon next to "About" to locate videos on specific issues. With nine years of uploads, even I can't always remember every video, and YouTube's search tool is the quickest way to locate the right tutorial. It may also show relevant videos from other creators.

Thank you again for reaching out and for your continued support. I appreciate your patience and engagement, and I hope these steps help you get your L1800 back up and running. Feel free to message again anytime.