Why Your Procolored L1800 Shoots Out Black Ink from the Capping Station - Causes and Fixes

Question:
I'm having a problem similar to what's shown in a YouTube video, except my printer doesn't have the two red lights flashing. My Procolored L1800 shoots out black ink from the capping station. I already removed and cleaned the top of the capping station and even flushed the waste tube with warm distilled water, but the issue persists. The printer hasn't been turned on for about a month due to health reasons. Should I follow the steps shown in the video (starting around the two-minute mark), or is there another fix you'd recommend? I'm based in West Virginia and would even consider driving to your shop if necessary.

Answer:

Now, to address your problem: the ink shooting out from the capping station happens because the down-line of your capping station is clogged. When the peristaltic pump runs, it's supposed to draw ink and waste fluid out through that line. However, if the tube is blocked, pressure builds up inside the pump. As soon as the printhead moves away from the capping station seal and the motor stops, that built-up pressure forces the ink to shoot back-sometimes quite forcefully, even high enough to hit nearby surfaces.

Since you've already cleaned the capping station top and flushed the waste line, the clog is likely inside the pump mechanism or deeper in the drain tubing. The clogging can happen easily when the printer sits idle for a long period (like your one-month downtime), as DTF ink tends to thicken and harden in stagnant lines.

Recommended Steps to Fix the Issue

1. Inspect the Peristaltic Pump and Waste Line:

   • Remove the waste line and check for ink buildup or crystallization inside.

   • Use warm distilled water or a cleaning solution (avoid strong solvents) to dissolve any dried ink.

   • If the line feels stiff or constricted, consider replacing it.

2. Clean or Replace the Capping Station Assembly:

   • If the clog is within the capping pad or the suction channel, a surface clean won't be enough-you'll need to disassemble the capping station.

   • Follow this guide for removing and reinstalling the capping station:
     Removing and Installing the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/_cZEkmgIZYc).

3. Deep Cleaning and Maintenance Resources:

   • Unclogging the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/WbY_6O1-w2c): Learn how to properly flush the capping pad and ensure a tight seal.

   • Capping Station Maintenance (https://youtu.be/5yjq3ZN0qv8): Preventive care to avoid future clogging.

   • Repairing the Capping Station (https://youtu.be/5UC2IMu9V90): Step-by-step troubleshooting for suction and pressure issues.

   • Rewiring Capping Station Tubes (https://youtu.be/J9im3s8UJfo): How to reconnect or replace waste lines properly.

4. In-Depth Disassembly and Reassembly Video:
   If none of the above methods resolve the issue, I've created a comprehensive premium guide that shows you how to completely disassemble the capping station, clean every gear and chamber, and reassemble it properly. You can access it here:
   Capping Station Assembly and Disassembly Guide for L1800/1390/1430 (https://bchtechnologies.com/products/video-capping-station-assemble-disassemble-guide-for-l1800-1390-artisan-1430-and-1400).

These steps should resolve the backflow issue by restoring normal suction to your printer's waste system. Once the clog is cleared, remember to run a light cleaning cycle to re-prime the ink flow. Avoid running multiple strong cleanings in a row, as that can overwork the pump.

Addressing printer issues can be a complex and hands-on process. Therefore, we're unable to offer remote troubleshooting or one-on-one repair assistance. However, we do provide in-person evaluation and repair services through our local diagnostic facility (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). Due to high demand, repairs are handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and it might take a few weeks to schedule your drop-off. Our services cover full printer repairs as well as individual component servicing.

For more cost-effective solutions, we strongly encourage self-help through video tutorials. You can search specific topics directly on our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies) using the search icon next to "About." With hundreds of videos accumulated over nine years, it's the fastest way to locate your exact issue-and YouTube may even recommend helpful related videos from other creators.

Thank you again for your patience and for choosing BCH Technologies. Your support means a lot, and we wish you the best of luck getting your printer running smoothly again.