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 | Epson C86 ink problem by km (9/10/05 8:11 AM) reply | +7 + / - | I have an Epson C86 printer. I ran out of black ink, replaced the black ink with a black Epson cartridge number T0431. I then attempted to print a black and white page of text. The paper was fed through the printer as if it were printing, but there was nothing on the page. The Epson Utility tells me that there is plenty of ink. I cleaned the heads twice, did a nozzle check, and black and yellow are not visible. Any ideas?
Thanks
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by skeeter79 (1/11/06 2:00 PM) reply | +10 + / - | I am having the same problem with my C86. It ran out of black ink and I changed the cartridge with the appropriate epson replacement, but now nothing prints on the page. All cartridges are brand new. I've tried the auto head-cleaning device, to no avail. If there is something that I can clean manually, I'm pretty handy, just tell me what to do.
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 | Re: Epson C86 ink problem by printerrepairpros  (1/11/06 3:48 PM) reply | +1 + / - | skeeter79,
Search this site for information on cleaning and reattaching the pump tube to the underside of the cap asseembly.
Hope this helps.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Dennis McIndoo (1/24/06 8:44 PM) reply | + / - | Hey, very same thing happened to me! Here is the weird thing. I replaced only one cartridge and that is the color that wasn't printing. THEN I decided since the others were really low to replace the others. Don't have to tell you what happened huh? No color printing at all!! They must have a chip problem on the print cartridge maybe??? Wanna bet?? I am heading back to Staples in the morning and see if they haven't had a lot of complaints.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by jjmillet (1/29/06 5:18 PM) reply | +1 + / - | Does the ink purge tube problem exist on the C86? I have seen this problem documented for the C82. I have the C86, but my symptoms match this problem of the tube coming off. I saw pictures on where this tube connection is located on the C82, but I could not find that spot on the C86. I was printing fine, then I got low ink warning and after replacing I could not print that color. Doing all the cleaning cycles and now the other cartridges are empty and even though I replaced them with new Epson cartridges now nothing prints. I must admit that we don't use the printer daily and I do leave it powered on all the time with the computer. I have even tried the Epson cleaning solution that can be bought online and no luck so far. Was beginning to wonder if the tube problem is here so nothing I do will help until the tube is reconnected. If the tube problem does exist on the C86, can someone give a better description of where the connection is located? Here is the description of the location that I have seen: "The ink purge tube under the printer's cleaning station sometimes comes apart during cartridge replacement." With the cartridge assembly to the left, I saw the blackish looking sponges, but I could not see under the cleaning station to see this tube. Does the station slide or lift out of the way?
Thanks,
Jim
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 | Re: Epson C86 Solution - Warranty by lionelvm (1/31/06 2:04 PM) reply | + / - | Just a note?
I have the same problem with the C86 after changing cartrdges it acts like it's printing but spits out a blank sheet. Looked up the Epson website and got a service number and called tech support. Gave them these symptoms and they shipped me a NEW C88. Since the printer was purchased within the past 12 months they shipped it free of charge and said I can throw away this one ?
Still would like to figure out how to fix this one as a backup??
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by trulytex (2/1/06 9:23 AM) reply | + / - | I had the exact same problem today. Fortunately, I had 3 weeks left on warranty. I called Epson and they walked me through the head cleaning process and, of course, there was no improvement. They are sending me a replacement printer (C88), too.
I love Epson's quality and speed, but this is the 3rd Epson I've had that ends up conking out like this after about a year. Might be time to go back to HP.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by brazilnut (2/15/06 10:40 AM) reply | + / - | Same deal here. New printer is in the mail... (a C88 I guess?) How long can they afford to do this?
My problem was only the yellow cartridge at first, but problem slowly migrated to magenta and cyan too. Now only black works.
I guess I'll keep this for B/W only use.
I notice the C88 doesn't use the same cartridges... bummer, that means I'll be throwing away $30 + in cartridges I bought for the C86.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by kbballou (2/18/06 5:43 PM) reply | + / - | I decided to really get into the problem and took my C84 printer apart. The tube that sucks ink to get the priming going was still attached but clogged. So, any new cartridge will not get sucked on during clean cylce. I took off the pump intake tube and forced cleaning glycol solution through the rubber tube while running the head clean cycle using a syringe. Finally got fluid throught the suction pump and got ink flowing after reconnection. I don't recommend this, printer is in pieces and the ink really hurts under your fingerhails, seems to dry tissue out and burns. Makes a real mess. Now, I think I'll go rebuild a car engine or something light for entertainment.
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 | Re: Epson C86 ink problem by kittyprrrs (2/19/06 8:44 PM) reply | + / - | i've gone back to using my HP 970CSE and my new HP 8250...I love Epson's speed of printing and the ink but overall, this is my second and most likely last printer I will be investing in this brand. I can't believe that they would sell these pieces of junk to the world and think to make it better by "sending you a NEW C88 (which does not use the Durabrite Ink by the way...sorry!) and we will pay for shipping and handling"....Pfft...please...I live right down the street from their Long Beach California office....I declined and have notified all my friends and family to stay away from Epson and their line of JUNK 9-month Guarantee to die pieces of pooh of printers.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Diane M (2/20/06 4:49 PM) reply | + / - | We have the same problem. Replaced all the inks with the Epson cartridges. Did the nozzle cleaning as specified several times. All we get are blank pages. Unfortunately, our warranty has ran out. This is the second Epson that we have had this happen with..the first being a c82 which was replaced with a c86.
Tech support was helpful in that they told us we probably need a new printer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! How is that for a durable product that is trustworthy!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by soupy (3/23/06 6:40 PM) reply | + / - | Don't toss out your broken OOW C86; eventually it will be added to the Loyalty program, and you'll be eligible for a free repair. The C84 was recently added.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by bwhite (4/11/06 3:23 PM) reply | +1 + / - | Same problem two times with the Epson C82 and they sent me a C86. This is a few months ago.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by hoovdaddy (4/19/06 7:17 AM) reply | + / - | I purchased a C86 to replace a C82, on 12/15/04. The C82 is showing the same type behavior that my C86 is now showing....after replacing the blk ink with a brand new, Epson cartridge, it will not print anything with black. I've done all the cleaning and maintance.
After speaking with a customer service person, I was told that there are 2 causes for this issue:
1. Leaving the printer on all the time.
2. not using the printer for a long period of time.
So...I guess I'm guilty of #1...the printer gets lots of use and I do forget to turn it off.
FYI: I also have a HP710c printer that I've had for 4 years or more, it's left on all the time, and I have NEVER had any issues with it.
I explained to my customer service person that this issue I'm having seems to be a problem with all C86 and C82 printers, and named references on the web. Of course she denied any issues.
This is the last Epson I will own.
Luckily I purchased a service plan from Best Buy, and I've got 1 year left...so I'll take it to them to fix it.
I received, in the mail, a notice for a Class Action suite for alleged:
"inkjet printers and inkjet cartridges indicate that cartridges are 'empty' and suspend printer function, even though substantial ink remains."
NO WONDER THEY'RE IN LITIGATION (or settling to stay out of it!)
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (4/25/06 6:46 AM) reply | + / - | What loyalty program??? I am the Computer Technician/Teacher for a small elementary school. We had 20 Epson C82's. One is still functioning. These were replaced with C86's. Now after nine months, the purge tubes in these are going as well. Our BOCES technical team will not fix them because it costs more to repair than to buy a new printer. How can I get Epson to replace them with something that works?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Doug Bracey III (5/17/06 9:46 PM) reply | +1 + / - | I had the exact same problem described here with my Epson Stylus C86, and was flaming mad to read that it sounded like I was just stuck with a dead printer and a bunch of new ink cartridges. But amazingly enough, I fixed my C86, and I'm happy to say it's printing perfectly once again.
To do this, I started by looking at the information at the link mentioned in one of the previous posts: http://www.fixyourownprinter.com/forums/inkjet/9350
However, the link provided there for how to disassemble the printer did not actually describe how to disassemble the C86; it was for some other model. I scoured the web, and found a good page describing how to do it, with lots of helpful pictures. Only problem: it was in German! http://www.druckerchannel.de/artikel.php?ID=1116
Well, good ol' Babelfish to the rescue: http://babelfish.altavista.com/ Using this page, I translated as much as I needed. Note that to do my repair, I didn't have to remove the paper handler. I did remove the silver rail that the ink cartridge contraption slides on, but not the black rail-like thing mounted underneath it.
At any rate, my problem was that the little tube leading away from the cleaning contraption was clogged with what I assume was solidified ink. I bravely yanked out the cleaning assembly (i.e., the somewhat delicate looking collection of white and black plastic parts that lay under where the ink cartridge module rests when not printing) (its just held by a single plastic clip on the bottom right side), and disconnected both the big plastic tube and the thinner plastic tube from the little plastic fitting that joins them. I shoved a straightened paper clip up the small tube to clear it, then I used compressed air to blow a big clog out of the little plastic fitting, and I blew it down the bigger plastic tube that seems to lead off to some kind of absorbing sponge in the back of the printer.
Having cleaned out the clogs to the best of my ability, I crossed my fingers and snapped everything back together. I ran the head cleaning process, then printed a page. Voila! A perfect looking printed page, where before I was getting nothing but blanks. It took me about two hours, though now that I know what I'm doing, I could probably do it all in about 45 minutes. Yes, I wish I never would have had to do it, but at least I didn't have to go out and spring for a whole new printer over one little clogged piece of tubing.
Doug
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by art houston (5/18/06 7:41 PM) reply | + / - | I'm going to follow Doug's process above. I had some German in the fifth grade, but I'll be using the babelfish site to get the gist of what is being sprechensich anyway.
Sheesh.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Doug Bracey III (5/18/06 8:05 PM) reply | + / - | Good luck, Art. With some perseverence, you can succeed. Believe me, every step of the way I had to fight the urge to just say forget it, and go buy a new printer. But when I put it all back together, and it worked perfectly again, it was more than a little satisfying.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (5/21/06 6:59 PM) reply | + / - | I'm having the same problems as described in previous posts.
I replaced all ink cartridges ($65.00 worth) and now nothing prints out even after numerous print head cleaning attempts.
I'm going to try Doug's fix it tip and keep my fingers crossed.
-Mike V from MA
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| Re: Epson C84 ink problem by Anonymous (5/22/06 7:11 AM) reply | + / - | Holy Cow -
I just experienced the same with my C84 Printer. at first I thought it was the cheaper Staples brand ink that I used rather than the Epson Brand - but I guess not. I've had the printer for more than 2 years now (last March was 2 years) and the same exact thing happened with the Black cartridge. BUT as I tried to clean it with alcohol and swab after removing all the cartridges - the other colors started clogging up as well. I replaced the black - then the yellow cartridge, both of those clogged up as well. Now when I run the test print on Nozzle Check, I get Cyan and Magenta printing and that's it. I've got 2 new cartridges (yellow and black) that aren't printing. I'm going to attempt Doug's cleaning protocol and report back.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Art Houston (5/22/06 11:47 AM) reply | + / - | Okay, I have an update for you after using the information from the German website (http://www.druckerchannel.de/artikel.php?ID=1116).
It’s not as bad as it sounds. Read on.
Tools: Butter knife, Epson solvent available here on this site, and surgical gloves. Patience, too.
I made sure I did this before I began: I powered on the printer, and after it clicked a couple of times and began making a continuous noise, I pulled the power cord. This leaves the carriage free to move by hand, and you’ll need to do that.
First, I copied the German paragraphs a few sentences at a time and translated them using the babelfish site (http://babelfish.altavista.com/) and placed them into a Word doc so I’d have a ready reference to use while looking at the pictures. There are some words that Babelfish won’t translate, but you will find yourself saying “that word must mean unclipped.”
There are LOTS of clips. It’s a clever design, and if you follow the steps given on the German site, you won’t break anything. Finesse, not force.
My first observation is that the procedure shown on the website is intended to be used to replace the absorbent materials for the waste ink in the base of the printer. Babelfish translated a particular German word into the English word “soil,” but they mean the “base” or “bottom” of the printer unit. The entire insides of the unit are fastened to a large gray plastic base. Since I did not want to replace the absorbent materials, I did not have to unscrew any screws, nor go nearly as far as the German tech went. In fact, I could have done what I needed to do by only removing the right side cover. Even so, you have better access to the entire unit with all three covers removed. The rather cryptic reference to a “haven” for the USB connection is basically a fitted housing that surrounds the parallel and USB connectors. Take a butter knife or something like it and put it into the slot in the bottom to release the lower portion of the USB connector housing. Then you can go ahead and remove the left side cover, then the “main” cover.
My aim in doing this was to check the hose arrangement used to draw waste ink to the absorbent pad system. One of the many reports about the C86 discussed clogging of the hoses, and it mentioned that clearing the clogs had restored operation of the printer. I wanted to try it before junking the printer. More on that later.
The hose assembly has three main parts: first, there is a very thin hose that attaches to the bottom of a narrow plastic part with rounded ends that is perpendicular to the direction of travel of the carriage. I’m thinking that this small hose and its fitting are intended to draw ink out of the printhead assembly and cap the printhead when the unit powers down to keep the printhead from drying out. The other end of the small hose fits onto the underside of an adapter on the side of the removable cleaning/capping assembly where it connects to a larger diameter hose fitted to the top of the adapter. This second, larger hose loops under the whole assembly and leads into a black circular device just behind the printhead area that is no doubt some kind of pump. At any rate, this device is somehow encouraging the ink to flow through a third (I’m not sure about that, since I did not take it apart) hose over to the ink “tank,” which is an open-top plastic area that is cast into the plastic base and which has a large piece of woven absorbent material in it. It looks like the last hose lays under the absorbent material, but I did not have a high intensity inspection light, so that's a guess. That's where my hose ended up after I was finished.
I was able to use the solvent purchased here on this site to check for a free flow through the hoses, including the small diameter hose under the printhead capping/cleaning device. Even though I was able to find a free flow of solvent through the entire hose system, I’m leaving the solution in the hose for about an hour or so until I am ready to assemble the printer and test it.
Notes:
Surgical gloves would have been a good idea to prevent skin staining. I didn’t have any today, but I recommend them.
Be careful with the door where the paper comes out. The small plastic nub that is the hinge is delicate. Mine broke on the left side. I’ll use super glue to fix it, and the reinstall the door later.
The entire “assembly” that lives under the parked printheads and ink carriage can be gingerly removed from the far right-hand end of the printer after removing the right side end cover and getting the carriage out of the way. This cleaning/capping assembly mates with two small protrusions near the end of the assembly that points toward the center of the printer, and a seating post that accepts the outer end of the assembly. The outer end MUST “snap” down into place after positioning the other end. There is a flexible clear plastic guard that is glued to a couple of pieces, and you have to carefully peel the lower end of it off the assembly to be able to remove it. (You can see this plastic guard before you begin this job by getting the printhead carriage out of the way and looking to the right inside the printer). Be VERY careful when trying to remove this assembly, as it is EXTREMELY delicate and no doubt costly to replace. You might start by applying lifting force to the bottom of the outer end of the assembly, rather than grasping the delicate moving parts of the unit.
When you are placing the assembly back into position after cleaning or re-connecting the hoses, be careful to check the position of a white, flag-shaped object that is on the front side of this removable assembly. Position it the same way you found it before you removed the assembly, the “down” position. The flag is left “down” when you move the carriage to the left to get it out of your way. Don’t force the carriage, follow the method I gave at the top. The carriage will operate this flag-shaped arm to move the assembly as needed.
Replace all covers. It takes no time at all to snap all of the pieces into place.
Okay, now for the test.
At first, I thought I had a different problem here from the one that some of you are having with your C86 machines. In fact, it’s likely that I managed to repair a different problem, since I had found all of my hoses connected and had a free flow of this site’s solvent through the hose system. After my test, I initially had output of an almost-blank sheet of paper (I used the word doc of this account for the test) with some occasional faint, barely readable type with my recently filled black ink cartridge. Maybe I had an air bubble.
Since only the black ink had a problem getting onto the paper, I removed the cartridge and cleaned the printhead with a full syringe of solvent. I had tried cleaning the black ink printhead a few timed before I opted to take the machine apart.
I then reset all of the cartridges and filled them until ink dripped from the bottom ink ports of the cartridges. When the drips stopped, I put each cartridge back into the carriage.
I ran a couple of cleaning cycles on the machine, and then printed a nozzle pattern. Presto. A perfect pattern.
If I’d had a hose problem, this would have been to way to approach it, so if you have a blank page output, I’d carefully give it a try. Do wear the surgical gloves, too.
I'm not sure how I would approach an air bubble problem with an OEM cartridge.
Good luck.
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 | Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Keith Smith (5/24/06 6:36 AM) reply | + / - | Heres a thought from the UK about Epson inkjet problems, I use epson printers quite a lot and like them for easy setting up etc. But I found this site as I had problems with durabrite inks and clogged heads. The big advanatgae of epson is cheap clone cartridges. Just buy an epson printer, when the cartridges run out buy clones at about 15-20% of the price for epson. Hey presto if the printer runs for 12 months without problems and then clogs, throw it away and start again, the saving on cartridges more than pays for the new printer. This way every 18 months or so you have a brand new printer at no cost.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by philipbryan (5/24/06 1:16 PM) reply | + / - | I took a shot at fixing this myself with some success. I can print again.
I followed the instructions here:
http://inkjetprinterhelp.us/duraink.html
Its a big job. took me about 3 hours. and you will get ink all over yourself.
my tips:
remove right side case
remove the ink carriage via a screwdriver snap thing on the bottom. You cant see it from above.
make sure you are cleaning the long semi transparent tube. not the small skinny black one.
I didnt have the cleaning solution so i used compressed air to clean out the tube. The little cans with the plastic straw for blowing dust off of electronic components. Be careful you know where the other end is pointed as gunk is going to come shooting out.
'
best of luck.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by art houston (5/24/06 2:49 PM) reply | + / - | On my C86, the small skinny black tube feeds the long semi-transparent tube, so both of them need to be free of clogs.
I think that having the solvent available was worthwhile, though I'm a little surprised I didn't create a new problem when I used the C86 repair kit. The C86 repair kit is no doubt designed to work with Dura-brite ink, which is a factor I had not considered when I ordered the kit last year. My bad.
Note: there are two "repair kits" availabe for the Epson printers. One is apparently for use with the Dura-brite pigment inks, and the other is for regular dye ink used in other models. I had ordered the C86 kit and did not realize that there was a second kit available. I had made the transition to dye ink last year because of the difficulty I was having in locating a good pigment ink. By the time I found a source for pigment ink, I had already been using the solvent designed for the C86, which assumes the use of Dura-Brite ink.
For most purposes, I have found the dye inks to do a very good job, and I have saved about four times the value of the printer by not purchasing Epson Dura-Brite cartridges.
Since pigment and dye inks are made using differnt chemistry, it stands to reason that their solvents would be different as well. In the future, I'll use the solvent intended for the non-Durabrite model printers, which very likely will use an ink similar to what I am using in my "aftermarket" cartridges.
My printer is still working well after its minor procedure the other day, and the ink has worn off of my skin.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by art houston (5/27/06 7:17 PM) reply | + / - | I'd consider the "repair kit" to try and clean the printheads.
This is the kit page:
http://www.fixyourownprinter.com/kits
Assuming you are using one of the printers described in this thread, I'll also ask if you have checked and cleared the tube that draws ink out of the cartridges during the cleaning/priming cycle. The methods to do this are explianed above.
Good luck.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by art houston (5/31/06 4:10 PM) reply | + / - | Ten days now and it's still working.
What a great feeling, to dodge the "printer replacement" bullet!!!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by capmarv  (6/22/06 11:32 AM) reply | + / - | Anonymous, Art,
YOU GUYS MADE MY DAY!!! You responded to my thread on the purge pump posting and my C64/C84 repair attempts. On a lark, decided to read this thread today, the last day to submit a claim for the Epson settlement, which I've just done. Maybe I'll get a small token of recompense for my expenditures on Epson products.
Admittedly, Epson color printers produce high quality photo reproductions, but I've used Epson only since dot-matrix days, and have no others to compare. After looking closely at the intricate laser engraved print head under magnification, I'm absolutely amazed they last for a year with any ink.
capmarv
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dgtuller (7/2/06 6:16 AM) reply | + / - | I had a Stylus c6something which I threw away after 14 months because of the clogging problem. When my current c86 developed the same problem after 15 months I got smart and checked this site. Got the cleaning kit for about 10 bucks and all is well. All Epson could say was to run the head cleaning process multiple times, replace all the ink cartridges (nearly the cost of the printer), or take it to my nearest authorized service center which is three hours away. They deny any knowledge of this chronic problem. When this one bites the dust it will be the last Epson product I ever buy.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by AndyinCanada (7/27/06 5:51 PM) reply | + / - | I have the same problem as everyone else here (2nd Epson Printer now dead with full cartridges). I won't be made a fool of with a 3rd Epson printer.
What other make/model would you recommend in the same price range as the Epson C86?
Thank You from Canada!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by shangana (8/3/06 6:03 PM) reply | + / - | This is absolutely incredible. I've been dealing with the same problem as everyone else here. I was shocked to come across this site when I Googled "Epson C86." What a scam this is. I will report it to the Better Business Bureau although I doubt it will matter. Thank you to everyone who wrote in. It is validating to know that I am not alone. I take care of my computer equipment and this printer problem out of nowhere has been a mystery. Well mystery solved.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Shangana (8/9/06 11:46 AM) reply | + / - | I was having the same problem as everyone else here. I want to report that I did file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau in Colton, CA (labbb.org). The company is a member of the BBB and therefore are obliged to respond. Epson responded within a couple of days and offered to replace the printer with a C88. I understand that many would rather not continue with an Epson printer, but regardless the company needs to know that these problems exist. If you don't want a replacement printer you may try to request a refund for ink cartridges, etc.
It is also important for an agency like the BBB to be informed of these issues as well so that they can report to the public.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by art houston (8/9/06 1:00 PM) reply | + / - | Another update:
I decided to replace the C86 I was using in my office with the C88. I was able to acquire the C88 from Epson after talking with a tech and getting the correct approach to use to get the "loyalty" price on the C88, which appears in red ink, at $59.00 and free shipping.
I took the C86 home to investigate it further. Despite some attitude from a participant here, I was able to get the unit working. Since I had enjoyed some success before (see my post above with the explanation of using the German website to open the unit) I decided to take a new approach that incorporated some of the earlier attempt that produced good results for a few weeks.
First, I found a vendor on ebay that sells the new generation of pigment inks that are intended for use in place of the new "durabrite ULTRA" inks. The "ULTRA" inks are the new generation of inks that you get with a C88 printer. The same vendor had the new "auto-reset" spongeless cartridges, which are a big improvement over the old style "compatible" carts that have the sponge material inside. It makes filling easier, and I believe helps to reduce the small air bubbles that become trapped in the nozzles.
I bought a set of carts for the C88 and the four color pigment ink bottles to go with them. They worked well immediately.
I also bought the new spongeless carts for the C86 that had become problematic.
I realized that I might need a large amount of purging fluid, and one of the vendors on ebay had a large bottle, about 130 ml, for under ten dollars. He wasn’t able to tell me whether or not it was the Symphony fluid. As a side note, I ended up writing an edit on the new ebay wiki under "feedback fairness," because the solution vendor stopped leaving positive feedback for buyers last September. Now, I will always check the link called "left for others" under the member profile box, to see if the seller leaves feedback for their buyers. A lesson learned. Maybe next time I’ll buy the MIS fluid, which is more expensive.
At any rate, I performed the head soaking procedure where I fill the capping sponge with cleaning solution and then cycle off the printer, with the hopes of dissolving the dried ink on the business side of the printhead. I was able to let it sit for several days, since I still have an old Lexmark Z52 from August of 2000 to use at home. I bought ink for that one at inksell.com and refilled the black ink cart through a little hole I made in the top of the cart. I rarely print in color on the Lexmark.
The C86 was unresponsive to the printhead soaking, so I took more drastic action today. I had previously observed the flow of ink through the purge pump system, so I had been going on the assumption that it was still purging, as I could still see some movement in the second tube, the one that goes into the ink pad absorbent material. I decided to check it's operation for myself.
First, I took off the printer outer covering, exposing the internal workings of the machine. I had already placed some cleaning solution in the new spongeless carts and let them sit in the carriage while I was trying to dissolve the dried ink on the underside of the printhead using the soaking procedure. Perhaps that helped to dissolve the ink deposits in the nozzles. I ran a cleaning cycle and was not impressed by the activity I saw in the inkpad tube, so I decided to remove the capping mechanism and connect a syringe of cleaning fluid directly to the tube that feeds the purge pump at the front.
I worked both the inlet and outlet tubes connected to the purge pump. What a mess, but necessary. After several minutes of irrigation, a put a little extra force on the inlet side, and experienced a sudden release of fluid during a cleaning cycle. Apparently, there had been an unseen clog in the purge pump assembly, and the cleaning solution was able to soften it enough for removal.
Although the printer now prints without banding as intended, I did run a cleaning cycle where the platen roller appears to jam. It’s intermittent, and I thought that if the purge pump is a “vane” design, I might have broker off one of the vanes as I moved the platen manually. However, the platen does occasionally turn during purging, and the flow of ink to the absorbent pads is better than I have ever seen before. Now, I’m getting much better cleaning and priming of the printhead, and the results with the new ink are very good.
Special note: there are two black pigment inks available. One, that comes with the refill kit, is a very dark gray. The other is called “photo black, which I imagine is as black as the typical dye-based black ink we often see for photo use. I may buy some of the “photo black” ink and see how it looks for general use.
I can live with that intermittent platen problem, since I had no idea at all that any of this would work, and was just a day spent at home in the air conditioning to see if I could save it from the garbage truck. I also downloaded the SSC service utility to try that out. The latest version covers the C86 and C88. Even though I have the auto-reset chips on the spongeless carts, I may reset them to “full” and then freeze the levels so I don’t have to remove the carts to reset them, and by doing so introduce air into the printhead assembly.
I’m glad, because now I still have enough room in the backyard for more cats.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (8/9/06 1:10 PM) reply | + / - | So it WAS a clogged purge tube after all. And you did not need to remove the print head. Maybe the "attitude from a participant here person" did help out out after all.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by art houston (8/9/06 3:19 PM) reply | + / - | No, my friend. It was the ADVICE that helped.
Had I not had some experience with hydraulics, I might not have tried to feed solution directly into the purge inlet tube. That was based on experience and a desire for some empirical observation.
Everything I had seen regarding the purge mechanism either showed a disconnected tube (which appears to be slightly different on the C86) or a clog in a location that was easily appreciated. Without a description of the volume of fluid typically ejected into the absorbent pad during the purge cycle, I was unable to assess the operation of the purge mechanism in a meaningful way.
The "attitude" was just a pain in the behind, and was totally unnecessary.
Note to others having a hard time with the C-series:
1) make sure a good amount of fluid can come out the outlet tube of the purge mechanism. Feed it in with a syringe if you can, after removing both the housing and the capping/cleaning assembly. It lifts out by first raising the outer end of the piece, by lifting it off the mounting post. You must take note of the inboard end of that assembly as you take it out so you will know how to position it when you put it back into place, later. It only goes back one way, or it will stick up too high. It snaps into place without fasteners. Don't put it back into place without re-attaching the purge hose.
On the C86, the purge hose meets an integrated hose adapter that steps the smaller hose from under the capping assembly up to the slightly larger hose that goes into the purge pump. The smaller hose is dark colored, and the larger hose is translucent, with a green stripe. When feeding cleaning solution into the purge tube, if you do it right, you can hold the purge inlet tube out to the right, and feed in the cleaning solution while the carriage is in the position it uses for purging/head cleaning. Don't sacrifice any fingers while you do this. That little motor has enough torque to make that carriage really fly back and forth, and it can really hurt you.
2) use the soaking procedure: place some cleaning solution on the capping "cup" and cycle off the printer using the power switch. Let it sit for a day ot two.
3) consider the spongeless carts that you can use to run cleaning solution through the printhead nozzles. They work great, and the auto reset chip is a great feature that allows high quality aftermarket ink refills without holding the carts in the air and lining up the old resetting tool. I would also use cleaning solution before changing ink types.
4) I saw one site that said use Windex, but I wouldn't do that. It could ruin the printer. I'd instead spend the money on the right cleaning solution. One company has a gallon jug of it for $85, but there are 130ml bottles that are very reasonable.
If nothing here works, you can probably get a new printer for the cost of four ink carts. A printhead kit is $116.97, which is patently absurd. That's what we used to call a "warranty only" part, since no one in their right mind would pay for it themselves.
Perhaps the best advice is don't give up on this too easily. If you have the cleaning solution, the time, and the inclination, you might not have to throw this problematic unit out with the trash.
Thank you for visiting the attitude free zone.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Canuck (8/17/06 8:37 PM) reply | + / - | I had a C86 dry out after 5 months. After a bit of a battle I got it replaced under warranty. About a year later, same problem with the new unit which had barely been used (maybe 200 pages!) Of course the new unit was no longer under warranty, but I was pretty sure it hsoud last more than 200 pages.
I called Epson and asked for a free replacement because there was obviously a deign flaw. Every time somebody told me "No" I asked to talk to their boss. After ascending three levels thtough the help/customer service hierarchy at Epson Canada, last week they agreed to make a one-time exception (.... disclaimer, blah, blah, don't tell your friends, there is no design defect, etc, etc) and sent me a shiny new C88. They didn't want the C86 back - I wonder why not.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by StPD (8/17/06 11:34 PM) reply | + / - | CaTsr-I'm in the same boat. I've stumbled across this board and discovered just now that I'm not alone and that Epson sucks. I used Epsons in previous jobs that were great but they were big commercial printers. My little C84 had been great until today. the cartridges ran out at the same time and when I replaced them, I got nothing. Stupidly, I bought back up cartridges, too. More than $100 worth.
Now I think I'll get another C84 (this one is 2 years old and well beyond warranty) and then complain that its broken just before the warranty expires.
thanks for the idea.
pd
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by EpsonButtPlug (8/22/06 8:47 PM) reply | + / - | This kind of thing is shameful of a reputable manufacturer.
Wish I had the patience to follow all the wonderful advice and instruction... but cuddling up to my C86 on the bear skin rug infront of the fireplace with a syringe, butter knife and latex gloves is not my ideal evening.
If there is such a thing as the mythical loyalty program it had better include a deep tissue massage with complementary oysters.
Can't believe my girlfriend was right... we should have got the HP... damn.
I hope the epson designers have a horrible inky death at sea from giant inky squid.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by madscientess (8/23/06 10:01 PM) reply | + / - | It seems I am the hundredth person to experience this problem, mine is the C84. Yes, it worked fine up until the ink got low, then when I went to replace all the cartridges, nothing at all will print. About the "Loyalty" program: if you do everything the Epson website service engineer suggests and it doesn't help, then you can call the Epson help line and they won't charge you IF you tell them that you've done everything the service engineer said to. Then the help line will give you a "password" to log into the Loyalty site. I have just about decided to get a refurbished RX-500 for $90 from their clearance area, but after everything I've read here, I'm afraid to. What do you all think? Also, Please Tell Me: how do I get the cover off of the C84 to look for the ink tubes???
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by moodybob (8/25/06 3:19 PM) reply | + / - | My C-86 was a freebie that came with a laptop. For more than a year it made great color prints, then the red ink began to print intermittently. Finally, the red quit completely. I discovered and bought the head cleaning solution from fixyourownprinter.com and began printing great color prints again. After a couple of weeks a little window opened on the screen everytime I tried to print, telling me some internal printer parts were nearing the end of their life. I ignored it and kept on printing until the message said the internal parts had reached the end of their life, and the printer refused to make a sound. The green power light is off, and the red paper and ink lights are blinking alternately. Following Epson's posted trouble shooting guide, I am led to the suggestion that I contact Epson. Ha! Has anyone else had this problem?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by gchow (8/30/06 2:26 PM) reply | + / - | same as everyone else, I have a c86, 4 months out of warranty, routine cartridge change, prints blank pages. Called IT support, he knew exactly what the problem was and said that i needed to buy a new printer and was about to refer me to that stupid program. After seeing how many people have the same problem...is there anything else we can do? i've had this for 16 months! what a waste.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by barathron (8/30/06 8:41 PM) reply | + / - | Same sad tale of woe for me. My 13 month old C86 quit outputting black ink after I had just bought a new $35 cartridge for it. I won't even bother with the specifics as everyone else has already told my story.
That is it for Epson with me. Been using them since the 80's but NEVER again. Epson seems not at all concerned about its customers. Their greed has blinded them apparently.
I may give a crack at cleaning the machine as some here have done. If I get it working I'll let you all know.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by MrParrot (9/2/06 7:32 AM) reply | + / - | C86. Same issue! This is probably the fifth Epson I've had since the 80s. I build systems and train new users. I have endorsed Epson for over 15 years. All this has changed.
After this experience, I will direct all my clients to HP.
The expense of five ink cartridges, the cleaning kit, the ruined shirt and not to mention my time spent all add up to way more money and hassle than it is worth to own an Epson! Epson's unwillingness to accept responsibility for this incredibly poor design is beyond appalling.
Thanks for the help, Art Houston, and others. I think we have all learned a valuable lesson.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by akoehlho (9/2/06 7:53 AM) reply | + / - | Exact same story as barathron above...I have had my Epson C86 for about a year and a half, bought new ink....blank pages. Now, I can take my printer to a tech to try and fix it for about the same cost to buy a new printer or spend 3 hours trying to fix a printer that I will probably break in the repair process or get it to work for another lousy couple months while getting ink all over the joint. What a bunch of crap!!!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by JRW (9/2/06 2:41 PM) reply | + / - | I do believe the C86 should be sold as a disposable unit only like a Huggie, Tampon, or overripe bananna; use it once until the ink runs out and throw it away. How can a company that continues to produce these pieces of scat stay in business. Oh, I'll answer that; there are many slow learners out there like me who are on their 3rd, 4th, or 5th Epson and only now will give up on the brand. So if they can continue to sell the upcoming generations even 2 or 3 printers they can stay in business and make their fortune off of selling ink cartridges. The usless machine sits here on my desk with its blue and white emblem announcing that it is an EPSON C86, not heavy enough to be used as a boat anchor but maybe could be used for target practice or I could cut the top out and use it for a petunia planter. My new printer will be an ANYTHING BUT EPSON!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by nbl (9/12/06 5:25 PM) reply | + / - | Same problem as all you others. My neighbor gave me my Epson C86 (came free with their computer). I can't bring myself to tell them "thanks a lot". Worked great for about a year through 2 black cartridge changes, then - nothing. I'm on my way to buy an HP.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by kathyo (9/16/06 3:20 PM) reply | + / - | There's nothing I like more than realizing that my Saturday has been wasted trying to get my C86 to print again. Mine was a gift but that actually makes it worse for me. I'm all for trying to fix things myself but these threads (and thank you all for letting me know it wasn't me)have pretty much scared me away from self repair. I also, will not be buying Epson again. A corporate repairman at work told me to go Cannon. He said it is by far the least expenseive to replace printer cartridges. I notice everyone here says HP. Any comments on Cannon?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (9/18/06 12:37 PM) reply | + / - | Seriously, go look at Doug Bracey's post on 5/17 below. This works. I just fixed my Epson c86 as well. It took me approximately 1 hour. You don't really even need instructions, just pop off the right side panel, unhook the black and white plastic structure below where the ink cartridges store and clean the tubes by squeezing it out with your fingers. Pop everything back on like it was before and your printer works again. Thanks a million Doug!
Ryan
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Novice (9/24/06 1:42 PM) reply | + / - | Yes, me too. What a piece of junk. However, I wanted to post a *thank you* to all contributors. I spent one hour fixing the problem instead of wasting time calling Epson.
I had trouble getting the German instructions / pictures working-- so I just decided to wing it and have some fun. Post by Anonymous 9/18 seemed to suggest not to overthink this-- and they were right!
After 1 hour, I was able to disassemble the housing, pop out the black & white plastic doo-hickey on the lower right side of the printer, disconnect the smaller tube. Then I squeezed out dried ink from larger tube -- started with the "pump" end that I didn't want to disconnect and squeeze toward the removed end. Next, I slid a large size paper clip through the two tubes to allow for better ink flow.
Put it all back together and what have you got? A slightly noiser printer but printing in all colors. My problem was no Cyan printing after last Cyan change, even though all others printed fine.
So while I'll never buy another Epson, I can now use this one until my cartridges are all used up, then pitch it (yes, I too just bought bulk pack of replacements!)
Thanks again to everyone for comments. 1 hour, no kidding!
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by rbruce1314 (9/25/06 3:55 AM) reply | + / - | Novice is right, but with one simplifying point.
I had all the usual symptoms on Saturday after an ink swap.
Came here earlier (thanks guys!) and set to work. This is the minimal version.
Remove R/H and L/H outer covers (L/H simply so you can get top cover off)
Remove top cover.
Connect to mains and push red button to get carrier out of the way. Disconnect mains.
Prise out print head white/black doo-hickey (term pinched from above) It is held by two 'button' clips only.
Remove small tube completely. Remove end of large tube, and pull out other end of large tube from waste reservoir at back. (note this tube is not free to pull backwards/forwards as it is trapped by pump vanes).
Flush small tube with good ole WD40 until it flows freely. Reattach both end using sealant (bath type or similar) if it shows signs of coming off.
Fill ends (both) of large tube with WD40. Using small (flexible)wire, poke and prod each end in turn,removing wire and wiping excess ink off until nearly clean. Poke wire as far as it will go each time.
Reconnect to mains AS IT IS. place outlet end of large tube over some sort of waste container, making sure outer end is lower than inner.
GO through head clean process and watch until muck flows from waste tube. If necessary (I had to ) speed process by blowing down carrier end of large tube while it is trying to suck. It WILL clear.
Disconect mains.
Reconnect inner end of large tube: this one will almost certainly need sealant due to remains of WD40.
Bury outer end of waste tube in reservoir.
Replace doo-hickey on its studs.
Replace covers.
Job done. Just under 1 hour.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Lou3 (9/25/06 10:46 PM) reply | + / - | What a nice surprise to learn that I won't need to waste my remaining Durabrite ink or discard my C86 just yet. I'll clean the tubes as described above, look for generic replacement ink from this point forward, and hold onto the printer until it breaks again or I find a good deal on a non-Epson. And I'll definitely file a complaint with the BBB.
Any suggestions for an alternative to the Durabrite cartridges?
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| Re: Epson C86 Drips ink by cowboy0469 (9/30/06 9:22 PM) reply | + / - | My C86 drips black ink as it prints. Is there any fix for this?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by testing (10/2/06 1:08 PM) reply | + / - | Alright, you guys all seem to have forgotten that you bought a pretty cheap printer. I've owned several HP's and 3 Epsons - 1280, 1270, 880. The 1270 died after 5 years, and the others are still fine. Yes, the 1270 had a sponge/head cleaning issue, but after 5 years, I just bought another one. You get what you pay for.. Pay a little more for the premium Epsons.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Chris2k (10/26/06 1:32 AM) reply | + / - | Had to change the black cartridge of my C86 and bought an original one.
As soon as I used it the printer started printing only blue (everything was in blue as the other colors were not used).
As the blue finished very fast, decided to change all cartridges with original ones and surprise... now I cannot print anything.
The pages come out white as when I insert them.
I cannot believe anything is dried out or blocked, as I printed in blue till I changed the cartridge.
Now I am in the same boat as all you guys.
Cannot believe there is no way to fix that :(
Let me know pls if you find a solution.
P.s. about the fact that the printer is cheap, that is not a good reason to sell rubbish.
Am using Epson and HP in my office and never had such a problem with an HP printer and those are sold at the same price.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Chris2k (10/26/06 3:12 AM) reply | + / - | Before having to open the printer and get ink everywhere, it seems very odd to me that the printer works and after changing the black cartridge the black duct gets blocked.
Furthermore, i change the blue cartridge and the moment I put it in, also the blue duct gets problems.
Then, after replacing also the other cartridges, I only get white pages :(
You really think all ducts get blocked that way ?
Hmmm.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Tranh in NorCal (10/28/06 2:30 AM) reply | + / - | Hey thanks for the details Doug! If it isn't already frustrating enough that my C86's print head is malfunctioning, scouring the web to look for how to step by step clean it was 2 hours of cyber hell. Still, thank god for the internet and for your gem!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Sbghosh (11/1/06 1:33 PM) reply | + / - | Similar problem!! Changed balck cartige and tried to print. Got black and white prints with lines and no color. Thought the color cartriges were empty - replaced all three cartriges. There was no improvement. Prints only black and white with lines.
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| Re: Epson C86 Scam by sbghosh (11/3/06 8:03 AM) reply | + / - | EpsonC86 Scam
The black ink cartridge of my year and half old Epson C86 printer was out of ink. That is what I thought and bought a new cartridge for $28 (including shipping). I installed the cartridge, did a test print. The test print showed only B&W print with bands and there were no color to be seen on the test print. The printers ink light indicated that all three ink cartridges needed replacement. I bought Epson multi-pack of three color cartridges, from Amazon.com, for about $30, and installed. The test print showed same B&W print with bands and no color. For one whole evening I followed the maintenance procedure for nozzle testing and cleaning with out any change in print out put.
On11/1/2003 at about 6 PM I called Epson technical support line at 562 276 7525. Epson technician Mustafa took my call. I described the problem and told him what I have done to resolve it. I told him in detail that I followed the nozzle cleaning procedure and that I had repeated the procedure multiple times. He told me there are a few things he could do to fix the problem but there would be $9.90 charge. I trusted the confidence in his voice and decided to spend another $10. In the next 5 or so minutes he instructed me to do exactly the same nozzle cleaning procedure I did the night before. There was no change in print output. Then he declared that he had determined that there was hardware problem and the printer would have to be send for repair. He also told me I would have to bear the full repair cost. In addition he gave me an address www.epson.com/loyality and a password. He told me there are printers at heavily discounted prices or on rebate for loyal customer. When I visited www.epson.com/loyality , I got a message ‘The page you requested is unavailable’.
It seems he new right from the begging that there was a hardware problem. There are hundreds of exactly the same complaints for this printer. He could tell me that there was hardware problem without taking money and wasting my time. I think this was Epson scam. Mustafa (Epson) was a smooth operator and coned the last $9.90 out of a loyal customer.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (11/7/06 1:45 PM) reply | + / - | I have an Epson RX500, not top of the line, but not a cheap printer, and it just came down with the same problem described above, after a little more than a year.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Mr.T (11/26/06 1:44 AM) reply | + / - | I too had a dead C86. Thank you to everyone for posting "how to clean" the purge tubing. The only thing I can add is when I was reassembling, I put the capping part in wrong. The printer made a grinding sound and after took it apart again and put the two black fingers UNDER the metal piece, everything was great.
Not impressed with Epson!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by fats (12/2/06 3:03 PM) reply | + / - | Hello all there.
I had the same problem with my C86 as almost all of you above. Not used for about two months. Ink running out, changing carts, printing nothing for about 60 USD.
Today I took it appart, cleaned both tubes and voala, it works again.
Some additional info for those who wish to try: when removing the side covers inside there are two clips. Put your hand inside and pull them down until they release the cover.
I used destilled water to wash. It worked quite well for dura brite ink. There were "stones" totally dry ink pieces in all tubes. The transparent tube is quite flexible so first I bended back and forth so the 1/2 of the dry ink fall out easily. Only then started washing with injection syringe and slightly warmed up water. The hardest is to get through the pump. The pump is very simple: the tube itself goes through it, but wheels round once. An excenter pushes the ink forward in the tube and so it sucs from the carts. Where the tube enters the pump it is bended 90 degrees. That is the challenging place to clean. (I removed the pump to have alook at its inside, but it may not be necesary in your case).
Do not forget to clean the place where the black tube meets with the transparent one.
Finally, I think it's hard for the pump to start sucking if the intake is empty, so filled the tube with the same water before assambling.
First printed a test page with stripes, after one head cleaning printed the test OK and then my dougter's photo fine.
Thanks a lot again to everyone. I feeled bound to share with you my experience and sorry if I repeated something.
I've taken photos of the action and stand ready to share.
Good luck.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by susanw (12/5/06 5:09 PM) reply | + / - | Thanks to everyone. Epson has never returned my email concerning my C86 which has new cartridges but prints absolutely nothing despite repeated cleanings. This is my second Epson and never again. Totally frustrating. I have never had a problem with HP printers at work so will switch at home. I think my husband and I will spend this Saturday disassembling this old Epson for the fun of it. Thanks again! Isn't the Internet great? Susan
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by farfranklin (12/6/06 5:12 PM) reply | + / - | Replaced black cartridge and surprise, no black output. Tried the techniques and cleaning fluids recommended. Still no black, but the new black cartridge I installed is now empty. Any sure way to clean the print head? I, too, will be looking for a different brand of printer.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by fats (12/10/06 1:06 PM) reply | + / - | Hi,
Not sure what exactly you have tried, but if all other colors are functional I suggest cleaning the head's black channels and the parking place.
Move the head to the left by pushing the ink button. Unplug power supply. Remove covers. Remove parking place together with its frame - release the clip on the right side, lift slightly up, pull to the right of the printer, unplug the transparent tube and it's free.
Prepare a sponge (or somthing what could suck in the liquid you use for the cleaning. Put it to the parking place. Move the head above.
For cleaning you need a syringe, destilled water warmed up to about 60 C, not more or whatever cleaning liquid you already may have. There are two ways to attach to the ink intake: cut the syringe end shorter until it fits or use a small tube (about 3 mm of diameter, e.g. wire insulation).
Remove black cart. Suck up liquid into the syringe. Leave air in it to compensate pressure. Attach to the ink tube. Push carfully the liquid through the head. Move it a little back and forth. If you push to hard can damage the head. Repeate 2-3 times with 2-3 ml liquid.
Do the same with parking channels through the small black tube.
Put all parts back and check. You can check without covers as well.
Of course you should replace or reset the black cartridge before (it is not empty rather full of ink - the chip counts the printing commands and does not measure the ink level.
Good luck.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Jillybear (12/10/06 7:12 PM) reply | + / - | OK,
Enough is enough.
My 3rd Epson Stylus C86 (in 2 years) is a piece of crap. I've never used, or seen, a bigger piece in my life. I have told the IT managers in our company to heed the lawsuit information and blogs I've forwarded and immediately cease buying Epson products altogether. This is absolutely reprehensible!
If you value your hard earned dollar ... NEVER NEVER NEVER buy Epson!
I'd forgive a company that stood behind their product and admitted the engineering problems. To date ... haven't seen anything from Epson but an attempt to cover up.
I'll now take my machine and ceremoniuosly dispatch the unit to its early demise (assisted by gravity of course). I'll give up on any help by Epson (don't have time to sit on the phone all day and wait for a replacement piece of ____ in the mail like the last 2 times).
I'll buy another brand and take the loss (because, as Epson knows, I don't have time to fight them over this nonsence). I'll take it like a grown-up, and accept the fact there is nothing I can do.
Except ... NEVER NEVER NEVER buy Epson again! Of course, I reserve the right to bitch about it on the internet.
Signed,
John Peterson - Dissatisfied Epson owner.
67 Reunion
Irvine, CA
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by hf150xlt (12/16/06 12:22 PM) reply | + / - | I had a c82 that quit working back in the spring of 05. I bought a c86 to replace it and today I bought a new balck cartridge for it and get nothing but blank sheets out. Last time I used it was 3 weeks ago it worked fine but said the black ink was getting low. I only use it about once a month since June when I got my degree and no longer use it on a weekly bases for printing out stuff for classes. What is hard for me is I had an old epson dot matrix printer I used for many years but just updated to a new printer with my c82 and then a c86 the 2 new ones last about a year and a half and quit working. Epson quality has gone down hill they use to have good printers but not anymore. This c86 is my last epson printer it just plain sucks to buy a new printer once every year or so.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by hometeamdawg (12/16/06 5:11 PM) reply | + / - | Well, I may have you all beat on a C86 experience.
Changed ALL the cartridges, including the higher capacity black.
Almost $70.00
We did not used the printer much, but NEVER left it on when not in use.
Warranty is expired, and after replacing cartridges, nothing but blank pages.
I took it apart...I cleaned the tubes, compressed air, distilled water, paper clips, WD40....
I know I ran 15+ head cleaning cycles before I saw anything on the paper. I had to run that many more before it would print in "text" mode without streaking. Then I printed a document....and I'M LOW ON INK, EVERY COLOR EXCEPT YELLOW!
Hey, but it works! And, no, I'm not buying more ink.
For $70 additional dollars and 2 hours of my time, I've got one printed picture and one document...and one piece of crap printer, that currently works, but is out of ink!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by designgirl (12/17/06 8:18 AM) reply | + / - | The last ditch cure .........
I am on C86 #3. Finally found an easy way to fix the clog problem - without tearing the machine apart. It requires two things: alcohol (the medical kind) and Que Tips.
Do this:
1. Remove cartridges
2. Dip Que Tip in acohol
3. Saturate area around the nozzle head
4. Replace cartridges and run nozzle check
5. Repeat steps 1-4 until nozzle check shows solid lines on all colors
6. Really stubborn? Saturate nozzle heads overnight - with cartidges in and printer turned off.
This may send the engineers into apoplexy but what do you have to lose if you're going to junk the machine anyway?
designgirl
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (12/17/06 8:47 AM) reply | + / - | Another rocket scientist who doesn't read the forum. If you did, you would have seen it mentioned hundreds of times! Alcohol, medical, isopropyl or drinking has ABSOLUTELY NO EFFECT on ink!!!! Might as well wave your magic wand over it. It would have exactly the same effect.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (edited 12/17/06 11:45 AM) reply | + / - | At least not on dried up DURAbrite ink. The standard isopropanol cleaners are designed for dye based inks. The crux of all the Epson issues is the DURAbrite formula. This contains a resin to bond the pigments together (and to the paper). Unfortunately, when DURAbrite dries up in the print head or the pumping system standard flush doesn't work if the ink has fully cured. If the ink retains any moisture, an alcohol based cleaner can work well enough to get the DURAbrite flowing again. It's the fresh DURAbrite that dissolves the solid ink residues and the reason you have to waste gallons of the stuff to clear a stubborn blockage.
The solution is to buy the Epson cleaning gloop from this website OR try adding a small quantity of ethylene glycol to the standard flush formula. After some research, I believe a glycol of some kind is used in Epson gloop to redissolve the resin. Since ethylene glycol is the simplest and only one available to Joe Public (auto antifreeze) I suggest you try it. My own trials indicate ethylene glycol laced flush dissolves dried DURAbrite better than without.
I see Epson are now using non-pigmented, dye based inks in their photoprinters. Could be a clear sign that they've seen the light.
Cheers,
A Rocket Scientist
PS: Ethylene Glycol has a sweet taste but is highly toxic. Take appropriate precautions to prevent your kids or pets getting near it.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by ZNK (1/2/07 1:19 PM) reply | + / - | Just called Epson after reading this thread. I had the same issue as everybody else on the thread...C86 stopped printing about a month after warranty expired and I wasted 60+ dollars on new cartridges. I called technical support but asked to be transferred to customer relations after being told that I would only need to pay a nominal (hah) 9.95 fee for tech support -
I explained to Customer relations that my C86 stopped working after the ink ran out and that I would never buy Epson again because I found that many people were having the same issues. I also indicated that I knew about the law suit and that I was going out to buy a new non-epson printer today.
They immediately offered to send me a C88 with a 30 day warranty (instead of the full year warranty) and informed me that there was no need to return the busted c86.
Clearly they know that their product is crap. At least they are trying to patch up the problem by bribing me with a non-waranteed C88- hopefully the C88 won't die.
We'll see if it comes- they said about 5 business days...
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (1/3/07 9:44 AM) reply | + / - | Hello ZNK,
This is an ideal opportunity to prove a point about Epsons. When the C88 arrives, do not install the Durabrite carts. Use dye based compatibles instead and your Epson will last 'forever'.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by tugboatdave (1/3/07 10:07 PM) reply | + / - | This forum saved me from throwing away my printer and 6 good cartridges! Same problem, changed black and soon lost all colors, Got all new cartridges $70 ,called Epson teck support $10(not including long distance with 10min. wait), they told me the print heads were plugged (brilliant deduction!),gave me the name of a local service depot($15+ phone book service!) who told me it was $40 down to even look at it and don't bother because it's not worth it. Went to store to get new C86 for cartridges(I figured I could save the ones that come with it then I would have 2 sets + 2 extra hi cap black), was told that C86 is dicontinued and C88 uses diferent cartridges, suprise!(of course warranty is long expired).
Found this site, Took off covers, hooked up printer and pulled a cartridge and pushed ink button to move head away, detatched large soft tube from connection under head parking spot hooked it up to small syringe(same as you use for feeding meds to pets,no needle,tube will fit over end) full of rubbing alcohol(sorry rocket scientist) Pushed plunger and watched gunk flow out of other end of tube, took 3 fills to clear tube completely.
Used syringe to drip alky into foam in head cap and let soak a few min. hooked tube back up, put cartridge back in and pushed ink button again, printer does its head setup thing and saw fuid moving in tube,saw that alky in head cap had vanished, printed test page and all is well!
I am not going to cry about Epson and demand their heads on stakes, these printers are cheap and one should not expect the moon from them but once this printer has finally expired and the C88 they send me(just hoping) I think a Laser printer will be next, any quirks with these?
Thanks to all who took time to hash this out and present it.
Dave.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by gunner1 (1/4/07 6:17 AM) reply | + / - | I see i'm not the only one with epson problems. My problem began when i let the black ink cartridge to empty and took a couple of days to replace. After that barely anything printed on the paper. Cleaned heads several time to no avail. Bought the epson solution to clean tubes. Did it 4 times letting solution sit over night. It improved a little but no where near where it needed to be. Basically only printed in black when I used the printer because the colors never worked properly. But even the black was not correct. It printed to about 70% of effiecincy. Then had to replace black cartridge again and i am basically back to being able to print nothing. Tried to use solution to clean to no luck. I injected the solution into the cartridge ports all 4. They seem to flow fine and I can see the discharge on the paper towel i slide under the carriage so i don't believe they are plugged. But from what i read here there are some more tubes that can be clogged. If so looking for a good detailed description and pictures to try and fix. Can anyone help. And of course the printer is out of warranty and epson help is of no help.
thanks
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by tugboatdave (1/4/07 4:34 PM) reply | + / - | Gunner 1:
That page from Wes is good but the C86 tube attachment is different, if you remove the right hand cover(pulls off with some difficulty because of hidden upper clips) and look in the side you will see a clear splash guard that pulls off, on the lower left side of the head cap assy. you will see the spot where the small dark tube and larger clear tube connect which is mounted solidly to the head cap assembly, if you reach in with needle nose pliers or surgical clamp you can pull off the larger tube and attach whatever you use to clean it out. I prefer the small syringe with no needle because the tubing fits snug over the end and this procedure requires some pressure to overcome clogs and pump resistance(less mess).
It is far easier if you remove the left hand cover and top cover too, the print carriage assembly can be moved away by removing a cartridge and powering up the printer then push the ink button, head will move across to indicate empty spot and you can then unplug or leave on(your choice) you can then pull the detached tube straight up for much easier access and cleaning the head cap(foam part with dyke around it). At the back of the printer you can see where the clear tube goes into a absorbent pad, pull it out and place it in waste container.
Once clean replace tube and put cartridge back and press ink button again, this will cycle the carriage back and pump will run breifly and you should see fluid come out of tube, I did this a few times dripping cleaning fluid into head cap to make double sure it was clean and flowing good, I would recommend doing this regularly, should be possible from top with covers on using syringe with tube extension and same ink button procedure, will use some ink though.
Regards
Dave
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by packagedesigner (1/4/07 5:17 PM) reply | + / - | Jan. 4-07
I am having the same problem. Changed all the cartridges - no colour on the printed page. Cleaning done ad-nauseum...still no colour even though the ink monitor shows them to be full.
This is the second Epson I've owned. They both crapped out just after the warranty ended.
Time for an HP.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by bitchie (1/5/07 12:29 PM) reply | -1 + / - | The best way to sort it is to blow compressed air through the tubing found underneath the headcleaner (the small spongy thing in the far right of the printer).
If you can try and get hold of the adjustment programme for the printer, its hard to find as only epson service centers have them, but it contains a feature called an 'ink charge'. if you selct an inkcharge and leave it over night. its filters ink throught the heads and tubing which works a lot of the time.
HOPE THIS HELPS
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by sperskine (1/5/07 2:12 PM) reply | + / - | I just said to my wife that the printer was two years old and that it was
"the typical life span of an ink jet printer". Her response was "No it's
not, my mother's had an HP since 2000 which is still working."
This is my second and last Epson. My foot is banging into the other one
as I am writing this and I'm now convinced after reading this thread that the
only logical solution is to throw them both away. My condolences to you, Mr. Art
Houston, for the loss of the huge portion of your life in which you've sacrificed
your time for Epson. (We do appreciate it)
Thanks
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by tva1 (1/14/07 12:54 PM) reply | + / - | Wow - Im not alone. Replaced the black cartrdige in my C86 and black does not print. Im going to HP now.
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| C86 ink anyone? by alparker23 (1/16/07 4:26 PM) reply | + / - | Well, after reading the many months worth of posts on here, I bought the fix kit and cleaned the tubes till you could see through them. I had high hopes when I hooked my C86 back up, but to no avail. after 2 days of cleaning and testing, nothing changed. So I caved and for the sake of my own sanity, bought a new HP while they're still on sale at BestBuy.
This means, of course, that I have extra ink cartriges lying around. I CAN'T GUARANTEE THE INK LEVELS of the colors, but I know that I have one double capacity black and one brand new standard capacity black that was just opened. If anyone who got their printer working is interested in them, please give me an email and I'll get your address from you. At least I'd feel a little better and less wasteful about them than if they just went in the trash.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by benson250 (1/20/07 11:04 AM) reply | + / - | hi, has anyone had my problem with a c86 just bought £20.00 worth of compatible inks changed the blue then nothing !! all I am getting is two red flashing lights no probs until now
thanks p.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by willl (1/22/07 5:41 PM) reply | -1 + / - | Same problem as everyone else with C86 . Epson has an inferior product and refuses to do anything about it!! I will amke sure that I, my family, and my friends never purchase another piece of Epson equipment!!
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| Re: Epson C86 PROBLEM by GAINESIS1 (1/31/07 11:49 AM) reply | + / - | MY C86 PRINTER IS SAYING THE PARTS ARE REACHING THE END OF ITS SERICE LIFE, I'VE HAD THIS MACHINE FOR 2 YEARS, IS THERE A RESET BUTTON BECAUSE IT WAS PRINTING JUST FINE BEFORE IT JUST STOPPED.
FOG
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 | Re: Epson C86 ink problem?? REALLY???!!! by PissedinSF (1/31/07 9:04 PM) reply | + / - | Hello? Epson???!!! Same problem, yadda yadda yadda. I am flummoxed as to why they sent me to the "loyalty" site to get a pathetic 10.00 off a product that is a bit suspect, after all. My printer was purchased mid 05' and I am just having this problem. Unfortunately I did not know other persons were having the same problem around the same time I purchased, or of the class action - now closed - that was going down. Epson now takes a very flip 'tude toward those of us that fell outside the warranty period and also missed the class action. EPSON has to learn there is a large and versatile intelligent consumer base. My suggestion is that you should not buy Epson products. EPSON has problems and they only address them to their benefit and their customers be darned. So, just say no to Epson. If you buy a Mac with and Epson periph, just say no, and ask: Can I get and HP with that Mac? 'Cause I gotta tell ya, I'd prefer fries after this little muck up!!! Besides, Epson sounds like something my toddler does after dinner........LOL
Sorry for the rant, just the way I feel I've been treated.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 PROBLEM by Anonymous (2/1/07 12:56 PM) reply | + / - | "MY C86 PRINTER IS SAYING THE PARTS ARE REACHING THE END OF ITS SERICE LIFE, I'VE HAD THIS MACHINE FOR 2 YEARS, IS THERE A RESET BUTTON BECAUSE IT WAS PRINTING JUST FINE BEFORE IT JUST STOPPED."
You may want to try this page and download:
http://inkjetprinterhelp.us/epsonSSC.html
---------------------------------
OK. Based upon my experiences, there are 2 different problems with Epson printers described here.
The first type (we will call this "type A") happens when the printer is printing fine...*until* you change a cartridge. Then no print.
The second (we will call this "type B") is when the printer has no output at all, same or new cartridge.
Both failures are due to a design decision by Epson to make the peizoelectric print heads in their inkjet printers permanent - not user replaceable. They are, however, 2 different types of failure.
"Type A" failure is due to the printer's inability to prime a new cartridge, due to the pump system being clogged. Underneath the very right side of the head carriage is a "park station" - this is the black and white plastic area that you see on the far right side of the printer when you look in. That park station has a small drain tube attached to bottom (which actually goes into a yet larger (but less flexible) drain tube), then onto a pump (yes, a real life pump) and then finally to a "drain station", an absorbent pad in the rear of the chassis.
When you change cartridges the new cartridge must have ink drawn out, and into the head assembly. This is the job of the park station / pump assembly. The head parks to the far right of it's travel and then the park station forms a vacuum seal with the head. The pump starts and, via the drain tubes, draws the fresh ink into the head thereby "starting" the fresh cartridge into it's normal life.
The problem is that the ink the drain tubes dry and harden over time. Therefore the pump cannot create a vacuum in the balance of the drain tube, the new cartridge never sees the vacuum, new ink is never drawn out of the new cartridge...and the new cartridge is never "started" into service. You get no prints, especially since you changed into a new cartridge and by doing so have removed the slight vacuum that the old cartridge used to enjoy during its life.
To repair this the printer needs to be disassembled and the drain tubes cleared of dried ink. Once this is done any new cartridges can be "started" into service, and all is right with the world again.
"Type B" failure is when the ink dries inside the head assembly itself, either in the small sub-storage ink tank deep inside the head or in the microscopic tubules that make the head function. Since the heads are a permanent part of an Epson printer (unlike HP and Canon, where either the head is integral with the ink cartridge (therefore replaced each and every time you refill) or changed as it's own separate unit), once the head channels clog the only thing to do is to either disassemble the entire printer to remove the head assembly and attempt to purge the assembly of the dried ink. Or, replace the heads.
---------------------------------
I can give detailed instructions of how to clear the "type A" clog (I am working them up now).
-Snake
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 PROBLEM by WaveGuide (2/1/07 2:57 PM) reply | + / - | Gainesis1
When an Epson gives you this message it usually means that the waste ink counter has max'd out and the absorbent pads in the base should be changed or cleaned. This can be resoved easily by installing the ubiquitous SSC Utility and running the Protection Counter reset.
The pads themselves will probably last another session before actually requiring you to replace/clean them. If you don't do this at the second service warning, waste ink will definitely overflow from underneath the printer.
On the Epson C86, the Protection Counter is set at 47,000 max. You can read the current value using the SSC Utility. You can get this by going to this link: http://inkjetprinterhelp.us/epsonSSC.html
Cheers, JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by emadamme (2/2/07 6:05 PM) reply | + / - | I have the same problem. After reading this thread, I called tech support, when they told me about the $9.95 fee, I just kept talking. He was telling me to do all the things I already did to try and fix the problem. Then offered the customer loyality link... Like I want to purchase another Epson.
I then asked to be transferred to the customer relations department. I explained the problem, let him know I did my research and found that this is a common problem in the C86. He admitted that this printer was sensitive and had problems. They are sending me a new C88 within the next week.
They don't want the old one back as it is obsolete.
So if you are having the same problem, call customer relations and be persistant. You will get a new printer.
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| Re: Re: Re: Epson C86 PROBLEM by ramayo53 (2/6/07 2:43 PM) reply | + / - | Snake, It's a damn shame that so many people are having the same problem with Epson printers. I'd be interested in detailed instructions on how to remove covers etc. and clear out the tubes on the C86. I also have a C80 that I gave up on a year or two ago with the same problem and also a Stylus 600 that prints only in BEST mode, when it feels like it. In the mean time my HP 1310 keeps chugging along Thanks. Bob
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by ramayo53 (2/6/07 5:43 PM) reply | + / - | I have an Epson C86 and just saw this forum today. So many of you have the same problem as me. It prints blank pages. After reviewing this forum I found some useful information, removed the covers, (the hardest part) found the mechanism where the head parks over with the wicks and tubing was able to remove it from the machine. I took an ink refill hypodermic plunger and filled with distilled water and tried to flush out the long hose and it was blocked solid. I traced the hose to the back of the printer to a large wick and lifted the wick to find the other end of the hose. I back flushed it from that end and it flushed out.
I took the parking assembly and washed it under the faucet and soaked the wicks that the head rests on. I did not see a pump as one forum said that this printer has. I also attached a piece of aquariun tubing to the refill plunger and removed the print cartridges and flushed out the heads from the top down with distilled water. Dried off all parts, reinstalled the cartridges and tried a test page and it immediately started printing. It took a few pages for the print quality to improve and it is now printing all colors. I will try this on my Epson C80 next that has been sitting for over a year now with the same problem.
Here is another tip. You can but a chip reset tool online for about $10. that tricks the printer into thinking that the ink cartridges are new. You can then refill them yourself and they will show as full in the service utility.
Good luck. Epson you are on my Poop list forever.
Bob M.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dahoov2 (2/6/07 6:29 PM) reply | + / - | There is MORE than enough people here with the same problem to start another class action lawsuit. I have the same problem...
My other Epson died and was under warranty, so they could either send me a new one or repair or I could upgrade to a C86 for 20 bucks more which is what I did. Now that C86 is having this blank page syndrome.
What is a good Printer to buy? What kills me is the cost of the ink and I use a TON of it.
Oh well.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dinosnake (2/7/07 7:20 AM) reply | + / - | You will need (easiest way described here for those who want it):
- roll of paper towels
- bottle of Windex or similar spray cleaner
- small, regular (not plastic coated) paper clips
- can of Dust-Off office "canned air" cleaner, WITH PLASTIC EXTENSION TUBE FOR NOZZLE (fresh, new can preferred)
- plastic or metal butter knife
- small screwdriver (jeweler's type)
- tweezers (the longer, the better) or small needlenose pliers
- gloves (latex, rubber, etc., if you wish to keep hands clean. If you get any ink on hands, the faster you wash them the better ANY ink will come off!)
Part 1 - prepare unit
Turn power on to unit. When head moves away from right-hand side of unit it is therefore unlocked. At any time, once the head is not in the fully right-hand parked position pull out the power plug.
The head will now be free to move left or right (carefully).
Move head to cartridge changing area and remove all cartridges. Set cartridges aside.
Unload paper. Disconnect power and USB/parallel cables.
Part 2 – prepare park station for overnight soak
Carefully move head assembly towards left side of unit and look inside printer, towards right. You will see the "park station" – a black and white plastic assembly with foam sponges.
http://www.druckerchannel.de
Take your Windex, or similar spray cleaner, and lightly spray the assembly unit the foam and balance of assembly is wet, about 4 to 7 gentle sprays.
The Windex / spray cleaner will dissolve blockages in the park assembly proper if left to sit overnight (at least 7 hours).
Part 3 - disassembly of unit to clear blockages in drain tubes:
Subpart (A): Remove left side of casing.
To do this hang the left side of the printer over the edge of a table and:
(1) Slide butter knife into thin slit on the bottom of the printer, left side, towards the rear. When done properly this unlocks the separate bezel which surrounds the printer ports. Remove bezel.
(2) Move head to right and put your hand into the left inside of the printer. There are 2 lock tabs along the top edge of the printer, inside the left casting. Gently push the lock tabs down, off their mating fingers, and very lightly push out on the casting (or grab outer surface) to move the tabs and fingers out of alignment
(3) While doing do on the outside of casing, on the back side, is a lock tab near the paper feed chute (it is dark gray, surrounded by light gray of the left casing, and has an arrow next to it). Unlock the tab by pushing in with the small screwdriver while simultaneously pushing (or, if you are pulling) the left casting away from the center of the printer. This unlocks the top of the left casing from the center printer section.
(4) On the underside of the printer, towards the rear, there is a "fork lock" made up of 2 prongs that slide into a projection on the main casing. It is located directly under the tab in (3), but on the bottom of the printer. Squeeze the two prongs together and push the prongs slightly through the projection to unseat that lock.
(5) On the underside of the printer, towards the front, there is a square dark gray area surrounded by the lighter gray of the left casting. Lift the right edge of the light gray casing *over* the square dark area (that is, pull that edge of the casing over the square, which serves as a "lock").
(6) When all of the locks have been disengaged the left, light gray casing of the printer can now be removed. Set aside.
Subpart (B): Remove right side of casing:
Hang the right side of the printer over the edge of a table and:
(1) Using the small screwdriver press in the two locks on the underside of the printer that is holding the right casing onto the main body. Slightly lever the right side casing away to disengage the locks.
(2) Using the small screwdriver press in the lock on the rear of the printer that is holding the right casing onto the main body.
(3) With all locks disengaged, apply medium-firm but consistent force to pull the right casing away from the main body (there is a hidden lock inside the casing that is held in by pressure. Using the consistent but relatively modest force will disengage the lock). If any external locks re-engage, depress them again with the screwdriver. A certain amount of force must be used to disengage the internal, hidden lock – if you are afraid of breaking the casing, start with low force and steadily increase until the lock comes free.
(4) When all of the locks have been disengaged the right, light gray casing of the printer can now be removed. Set aside.
Subpart (C): Remove main casing:
(A) With both left and right side overcasings removed, lift off center casing
(B) There are 3 locks on the rear and 2 locks on the front holding the main casing in place. Disengage these locks and remove the main, center casing.
Remove the clear plastic splashguard that is simply taped in 2 places over the right opening near the park station (gently pull to disengage tape).
You now have access to the necessary work area.
First look at the machine to understand what your work will require. On the underside of the park station a thin rubber tube runs out. This tube connects to a slightly larger plastic tube on a fixed junction on the side of the assembly that holds the sliding park station. This slightly larger, clear plastic tube in turn runs to the rear of the printer, and while doing so runs into the pump assembly (a circular object just to the rear of the park station assembly)
http://www.druckerchannel.de
(photo of circular pump with clear plastic tube running out of it, towards the rear of the printer)
This is the tube that must be cleared of blockages.
Put on your gloves. Remove *only the ends of the tubes* from (a) underneath the felt pad at the rear of the printer and (b) the fixed junction on the side of the park station assembly (use your tweezers if necessary).
Clean the outside ends of the tubes using paper towers and your spray cleaner as well as possible.
Unbend one curve of your paper clip and, using the wire, clean out the insides of the tube at each end (dig out the dried ink clumps). Clean your paper clip as much as necessary in clean paper towels.
Clean outside ends of tubes again.
Take Dust-Off air can and insert Dust-Off extension tube into can's nozzle. Insert other end of Dust-Off extension tube into one side of clear drain tube.
PLACE OTHER, FREE END OF DRAIN TUBE IN CLEAN PAPER TOWELS.
YOU MUST KEEP THE FREE END OF THE DRAIN TUBE IN THE PAPER TOWELS DURING THIS PROCEDURE OR WET, AND DRY, INK WILL GET FLUNG IN ALL DIRECTIONS!
FIRMLY TAPE PAPER TOWELS TO FREE END OF TUBE, GET A HELPER TO HOLD FREE TUBE INTO PAPER TOWELS OR HOLD FREE END YOURSELF!
Press trigger of Dust-Off to send pressurized air into clogged drain tube, forcing ink and ink clumps out of free end. Repeat application of Dust-Off bursts until no additional ink clumps come out of free end of tube.
Clean outside ends of tubes again and Dust-Off extension tube.
Reverse pressurized end / free end application – that is, what end was previously free insert Dust-Off extension tube into, what previously had Dust-Off make free end. This is because pump prevents ink clumps from moving past itself –therefore, you must go front-to-back and back-to-front pressure cleanings to fully clear tube of all blockages.
REMEMBER – DURING PRESSURE CLEANINGS REMEMBER TO HOLD FREE END OF TUBE INTO PAPER TOWELS TO AVOID HUGE MESS!!
Repeat exchanging ends of pressure versus free until no additional ink clumps come out of tube. 2 to 3 thorough pressure cleanings in each direction should clear tube completely.
Insert tube ends back into proper locations.
Connect printer and test for operation.
If printer works, reassemble printer in reverse order.
--------------------------------------------
Believe it or not, that is all that is necessary. If the printer does NOT work then the thin rubber tube that comes directly out of the park station will have to be cleaned. This requires removal of the park station from the frame that allows it to slide – very easy, but NOTE that there are TWO springs that allow the park station to slide – a large diameter and small diameter spring. One goes on the park station proper while the other goes on the (white) lever that locks the park station into position based upon head location. These springs MUST be reattached.
(and doing so is not difficult but it IS a bit bothersome, so try the pressure cleaning first WITHOUT removing the park station from it's frame – it's much easier!)
If you need more info let me know, and good luck!
- Snake
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by leips (2/8/07 6:04 PM) reply | + / - | I can't believe that there are this many problems with this piece of junk. Mine also just crapped out after changing the black ink cartridge???? I also called the useless (toll) support # where some guy in India tried to charge me $10 for support?? I have purchased 3 black cartridges and wasted hours farting around with this. I wish I had found this site before any of this.... I would have driven over my printer with my car and atleast gotten some satisfaction!
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (2/11/07 5:37 PM) reply | + / - | I've been refilling my ink cartridges for a few years now. It can get a little messy but well worth it. I bought an Ink refill kit and reuse the tools in it. I purchased a 16 ounce bottle of black ink online for $20. and have refilled my existing cartridge many times. Paying $20.- $40. for an ink cartridge is exactly what the printer companies hope we will do. You may also have to reset the ink cartridge. Just search online and you will find out how to do it. Some printer companies make the cartridge unusable electronically once it is empty to force us to buy ink cartridges. Hope this helps.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (2/11/07 6:07 PM) reply | + / - | FYI - we went through all of this, tossed out the piece of poo-poo C-86 and went with a C88 (the Durabrite inks are important for a special application we do).
With the C88, we haven't been taking any chances. We turn it off after every use. Try to print at least every other day.
Guess what - replaced the black cartridge after about 2 months of operation, and the banding has begun. Ran the cleaning, and now the color cartridges ar banding!!!!
We're still in warranty, but this isn't promising.
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| Re: Re: Re: Epson C86 PROBLEM by spiv (2/12/07 10:16 AM) reply | + / - | Good write-up Snake.
I've fought the Epson clog problems for years, with success, although it ate up a lot of time.
Just some added information. I've used denatured alcohol (NOT isopropyl alcohol which it also known as rubbing alcohol) with almost 100 % success.
I used it to flush out the pump and drain tubes. It also did wonders on the head but I didn't have to inject it into each color on the head. I soaked a cue-tip with denatured alcohol and just touched it to the small plastic nubs that enter the ink cartridge. That nub is really a cluster of very small, almost microscopic, tubes that feed each color to the print head. Works well, just let it soak about 5 minutes. Capillary action will draw it into the print head and, in most cases, will clean it out. If that doesn't do it a syringe and pressure is needed. Not too much pressure though.
If you want to make your own cleaning solution its roughly 90% distilled water, 10% denatured alcohol (bought at Home Depot) just a few drops of ethylene Glycol (antifreeze). I usually use 100% denatured in my case and it works well.
To clean you hands of ink, diluted bleach works well. Needs a lot of rinsing though.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by EJS (2/12/07 8:03 PM) reply | + / - | I just fixed mine using the info posted on this thread. I probably would have thrown it out if I had not just purchased a number of replacement cartridges, but now it is as good as new! Thanks, everyone!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Becki (2/19/07 1:42 PM) reply | + / - | funnily same here - 24 month old printer....changed the black and it printed funny so then changed the yellow and it wouldnt print any yellow at all. luckily i took out an etended warranty so im off to replace it tomorrow. however bookmarking this page encase problems arise in the future!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by blueliz (2/20/07 8:27 AM) reply | + / - | Thanks for making me feel not alone. Still angry, but not alone. I'll be trying Snake's procedure out, I'll let you know if it works for me!
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| Re: stylus RX500 photo problem by dlakoduk (2/23/07 8:57 PM) reply | + / - | I recently purchased some cleaning solution to un-glog the print heads on my RX 500. When I got to a certain point and still hadn't gotten favorable results the enclosed instructions said the 'purge tube' was probably disconnected, but the links to information that were proviced did not include my printer in their instructions to get to and reconnect this 'tube'. The RX 500 has some desireable features and I would really like it back on line. Does anyone have any information about this particular situation? Thanks in advance.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (2/24/07 2:08 AM) reply | + / - | On the RX500 the ink purge usuallly gets clogged at the tip where it enters absorber pad area. You would need to disassemble the printer to get to the tube.
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| Re: RX 500 purge tube by Anonymous (2/24/07 11:48 AM) reply | + / - | Thanks for the input.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (2/25/07 1:11 AM) reply | + / - | give us some ink
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (2/25/07 1:13 AM) reply | + / - | give us some ink today
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by c86user (3/5/07 7:45 PM) reply | + / - | We've followed Snake's instructions to clean the tubing (BIG clogs), however, when we pulled the large tube out from the back of the printer we didn't note where it was connected. Can someone tell us where that end of the large tube goes? Thanks!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dinosnake (3/6/07 11:16 AM) reply | + / - | It does not get connected to anything. It simply (seems) to fit / lay underneath the absorbent pad.
Simply lift the end of the pad up and place the tube back underneath. Refit pad end.
BTW...does *anyone* have a good reason why this forum keeps losing my login identity???
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| Re: Epson C86 ink MALFUNCTIONING HARDWARD by CPcruizer (3/8/07 2:36 PM) reply | + / - | Today, my Epson C86 stopped printing. It sounded like it was printing but without any print.
I did the following steps-
Cleaned Head Several Times
Nozzle Check
Print Head Alignment
New Ink Cartridges
Shut Down Printer Test - did not print so it's not the software or driver
Checked Port
Device Manager
Online Troubleshooting Guide - Could not help need to contact technical assistance
Printer on Flat Surface
Solid Green light
Turned on and off printer - Turned on and off PC still would not print
I wrote Epson an E-mail - asking why did it just stop printing for no apparent reason? Now, what else can I do to get my printer to work? I do not accept an inherent fault in the product and would like the repair to be carried out correctly or have the printer replaced with the same or better model of the appliance, including how you wish me to handle the return of the broken/non-printing C86 Printer.
This is what they had to say about this -
It appears as though the printer hardware itself is malfunctioning and will require service. This product has a one-year warranty from the original date of purchase. You can take the unit to an Authorized Epson Repair facility for repair if your printer is still in warranty. You will need to provide a proof of purchase to ensure that all costs are covered by the
Epson warranty. If the warranty period has expired you can still have the unit repaired by an Authorized Epson Repair facility. To locate an authorized service center in your area:
http://support.epson.com Select A Service Center under HELP ME FIND….
If you require further assistance with this particular issue, please ensure all of our previous correspondence is contained in your reply, so we can better track the history of this issue.
If you have a different issue, please submit another E-form via our website(http://www.epson.com), and we will respond in a timely manner. Thank you again for contacting Epson.
---------
After reading this thread, I have come to the conclusion that I will buy another brand.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dinosnake (3/9/07 6:23 AM) reply | + / - | Well, it is not difficult to clear the suction tube blockages if you would like to try. In less than 1/2 hour, approximately, you can get it back up and running. Simply follow my directions as shown in my previous posts.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by jsc8997 (3/9/07 5:10 PM) reply | + / - | I also had this same problem. Funny how it was printing prior to the tank replacement. Epson is not standing behind this product. I urge all of you having this problem to email their technical support and inform them of this issue and if they are not going to stand behind their product then you won't be an Epson consumer any longer. Just my 2 cents. By the way, this is my fourth Epson and the only one I have had problems with.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by n5bail (3/11/07 6:38 PM) reply | + / - | Thanks. Snake's tutorial fixed the problem. I used an air compressor and it seemed to do the job.
-Nate
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by nood65 (3/22/07 3:13 PM) reply | + / - | I have the same situation with a Epson C86, over 1 year old, prints yellow and red only, plenty of ink, pattern tests don't help. Epson rep said it would cost to get advice; I said no thanks; it'll just go into the trash.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by moodybob (3/22/07 5:47 PM) reply | + / - | I had to scrap one C86 when it stopped working altogether. A popup said an internal part had failed, and it should be returned to the factory for service. Since I need a printer with a parallel port in addition to the USB port, I bought another C86, which worked fine until the print heads began to clog. I bought some head cleaner from fixyourownprinter.com, and it helped, but unless the printer is used every day the heads will clog with Epson or Carrot ink. I decided to try another third party ink and so far the ink from 123inkjets.com has not clogged the heads, even if the printer is used less than once a week.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by hoovdaddy (3/22/07 6:47 PM) reply | + / - | I took my printer back to Best Buy (see posting dated: 4/19/06 7:17 AM above).
They "junked it" and gave me store credit, with which I bought a Canon MP150. I still have a color cartridge for the C86 still in the box...brand new!!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (3/22/07 8:09 PM) reply | + / - | After snakes tut my printer is working perfectly. Thanks a lot.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Luppy (3/30/07 10:47 AM) reply | + / - | Been having the same trouble with this piece of crap. I threw it out the window and it smashed in the driveway in about 8 pieces. I saw the possible fix on here, but I don't have time to do printer surgery on a cheap printer so I just ordered a C-88 because I like the speed of these little Epsons. If the same thing happens it too will go out the window and I will get another brand. We will see.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by coleisaac (3/30/07 11:50 AM) reply | + / - | I have to report that my C86 is once again working perfect! My husband who is an avid 'Mr Fixit' took this on as a challenge & managed to clean out the 2 ink tubes which were indeed clogged completely. HOWEVER, this printer surgery is NOT for the faint of heart - it was unbelievable what he had to do to get to those little suckers. I agree, for the low price of a new printer I would have junked it & sprung for a new one. Don't know how long it will be before it clogs up again, but next time it's the junkpile for sure!!!
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by ken22 (edited 4/6/07 9:37 AM) reply | + / - | Dear dinosnake
I used your instructions which were great.
I did have a big clog at the end of the tube under the pad.
It didn't work. The other tube is open also. That park assembly was fairly easy to get in and out.
What about the ink nozzles themselves? Do they plug?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dinosnake (4/8/07 9:19 AM) reply | + / - | Yes, the nozzles can clog.
What you want to try to do is the "overnight soak", then park the head (by plugging the power back in and turning the power on and off) over the Windex-soaked park pad.
Many times the Windex-soaked park pad will dissolve the clog - but it is not guaranteed. You can also try removing the ink cartridges and Windex-soaking the cartridge-to-head interface (don't be afraid, I did it on mine, just make sure you don't spray the electrical connections). Let that soak for a few minutes, reinstall the cartridges, then run a nozzle check.
Did you remember to run a check nozzle prime & cleaning cycle after clearing out the tubes?
And is there ink confirmed still being in the cartridges (new cartridge or confirmed good)?
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (4/8/07 2:27 PM) reply | + / - | Dump the Durabrite carts for dye based inks and your Epson will last as long as any other brand.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by loramsw (4/10/07 7:58 PM) reply | + / - | This list of postings is highly enlightening as I have faced the same problem as the rest of you. It is the great "buy Epson ink for broken printer" conspiracy. I am not sure that I will undergo the cleaning surgery and wonder what the real possiblity is of advocating for a C88 if the warranty is indeed expired by a few months. Is there a real class action lawsuit going on that we can use as leverage when we talk to customer service? I am going to try the advocay route before the cleaning route as I fear this is a never ending cleaning-battle. Also, any ideas on a new printer model? I have a Canon Pixma i3000 which has been great; what HP models are recommended?
Thanks for all your help.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by designgirl (4/11/07 7:49 AM) reply | + / - | I think it's time to re-post this. 3 months later, my C86 is working fine.
The last ditch cure .........
I am on C86 #3. Finally found an easy way to fix the clog problem - without tearing the machine apart. It requires two things: alcohol (the medical kind) and Q-Tips.
Do this:
1. Remove cartridges
2. Dip Q-Tip in acohol
3. Saturate area around the nozzle head
4. Replace cartridges and run nozzle check (not cleaning)
5. Repeat steps 1-4 until nozzle check shows solid lines on all colors
6. Really stubborn? Saturate nozzle heads overnight - with cartidges in and printer turned off.
Try it -what have you got to loose?
designgirl
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by designgirl (4/11/07 7:52 AM) reply | + / - | I think it's time to re-post this. 3 months later, my C86 is working fine.
The last ditch cure .........
I am on C86 #3. Finally found an easy way to fix the clog problem - without tearing the machine apart. It requires two things: alcohol (the medical kind) and Q-Tips.
Do this:
1. Remove cartridges
2. Dip Q-Tip in acohol
3. Saturate area around the nozzle head
4. Replace cartridges and run nozzle check (not cleaning)
5. Repeat steps 1-4 until nozzle check shows solid lines on all colors
6. Really stubborn? Saturate nozzle heads overnight - with cartidges in and printer turned off.
Try it -what have you got to lose?
designgirl
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by loramsw (4/11/07 9:33 AM) reply | + / - | Does this method work when all of the colors stop working? Or is that a different problem. Also, what is "the medical kind" of alcohol as opposed to rubbing alcohol. I want to give this a try before I chuck the thing.
Thanks.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Avenger_007 (4/14/07 12:27 AM) reply | + / - | I have had the sme issue with the Styluss 800, C82 and now today the C86. The problem is definately clogging. I have gone trough 4 Epson printers now and tis will be my last. It is really too bad since the print quality and durability of the ink is so good when you first get the printer and it WORKS.
Epson just lost another customer.....
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (edited 4/14/07 3:10 PM) reply | + / - | The basic problem with Epson printers is Durabrite ink. It will inevitably cause blocked print heads on any machine not used almost daily. Durabrite is a resin/pigment based ink with a high solids content. This means it dries to a stiff lump of goo which blocks jets and even blocks the waste ink drainage tube.
Unblocking print heads can be almost impossible if the ink has dried too much. However, the Epson cleaning solvent sold on this website is good and worth trying if your home made cleaners don't work.
Rubbing alcohol contains water as well as a 'wintergreen' additive to cause warming of the skin. This additive can dissolve plastic, so I'd avoid rubbing alcohol if possible. I don't think 'medical' alcohol is much different. The best quality of alcohol available to the public is Methylated Spirits. This is ethyl alcohol with a trace of purple dye and a small amount of bittering agent discourage drinking and some methanol to render it poisonous. This is the best form of alcohol to use in home recipes for head cleaners. The stuff contained in household cleaners, window polishes etc is too crude to be really effective as water-free alcohol.
If you manage to unblock your printer using one or other remedies discussed on this forum, please DO NOT use Durabrite ink in it or you will be back to square one in a very short time. Use dye based inks and use the printer at least once a week to prevent it drying out. I use dye inks in my second hand C86 and it's been running for two years without any problems. It was blocked when I bought it, but I cleaned the jets out and dumped the Durabrite carts. I believe Epson are now moving back to dye based inks ('Claria'), probably to put the whole blocked printer debarcle behind them.
Also if you want to save ink, never turn off the printer so it doesn't go through its ink wasting routing every time you switch on. Another bit of advice is to uninstall the Epson Status Manager and use the SSC Utility instead. That advice is given on the SSC website and it's worth following.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by bb-15 (4/15/07 9:19 PM) reply | + / - | My C86 almost lasted 2 years before it stopped printing black ink.
I did some of the cleaning routine following the instructions by dinosnake. I did the Windex soak and I was able to clean out the large tube. This took me 2 hours not counting set up and clean up.
After this, the printer had a slight improvement with printing black but did less well with printing color. Going through some cleaning cycles and test pages went through a lot of ink, and the printer was now running low. Since I needed to print my taxes, I put the thing together and put it in the garage.
I went out and bought a new C88 (I need the parallel port) for $79 which is only a about $20 more than buying new ink cartridges for the old printer.
* Sometimes, you just have to know when to walk away from a problem.
imho at least, BB ;-)
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by vito_ (4/15/07 9:56 PM) reply | + / - | i went to change a TO443(magenta)cartridge and my espson c86 did that dreaded blinking red lights thing. i had no use of my printer, instead every time i turned it on, it just sat there blinking like a freaking warning beacon.
i reinstalled the old empty cartridge ***This is Key***
turned the printer off,
reset my computer to a earlier time,
turned the printer on and reinstalled new cartridge wither better luck.
to get at the cartridges i started the printer and before it could go into "the red" as it slid past the open part i opened the cartridge cover and jammed it there for the switch
never underestimate the power of a restore
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by moe (4/15/07 11:01 PM) reply | + / - | Rubbing alcohol contains an active ingredient that dissolves ink, medicinal alcohol does not. If you look at the label, you will see it listed "contains water". Alcohol has absolutely no effect on ink whatsoever and I'm getting tired of people advocating it!
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 | Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by moe (4/15/07 11:12 PM) reply | + / - | Reading your post, people might get the idea that you know what you are talking about. On the contrary, rubbing alcohol is more effective than Methylated spirits since it contains the active ingredient "water". Since Epson inks are water based, alcohol has absolutely no effect on dissolving the ink. Come to think of it, water is cheaper so why use rubbing alcohol which contains 70% inert materials, namely "alcohol". BTW, I have experimented by putting a dried blob of ink in a cup of 99% alcohol and one in a cup of water as a control. The alcohol evaporated after several days leaving the ink untouched. The blob in the water, totally dissolved.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by mokyde (4/16/07 2:43 PM) reply | + / - | Wow same problem so I emailed Epson and they asked me to call customer relations so I did. I explained the problem and he offered to send new cartridges. Of course like many of you I had just bought new cartridges so that wouldn't do me any good. Duh! When I told him of the dozens of posts I read about the same problem he denied that there was a problem. When I told him that he may not be aware of a problem but I was certain someone at Epson was he said that Epson did not recognize the problem. I asked to speak to his supervisor...no way. He suggested that I read the warranty. Now I am getting a little PO'd. Basically I was out of luck and he hung up on me. My advise is stay far away from Epson products. I and the company I work for (and buy for) certainly will.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (4/16/07 3:03 PM) reply | + / - | How could they not know??? They know, they just don't want to address the problem. I had exactly the same experience with customer service you did....I went out to buy another printer, needed a upgrade for fax, copier, scanner anyway. I will never buy another EPSON...both their copiers and customer service is awful....
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| Re: Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (4/16/07 3:56 PM) reply | + / - | Hello moe,
I agree with you on this, but I wasn't advocating neat alcohol as a cleaning agent, but explaining to the questioner the differences between various 'alcohols' available to him. If he wants to delve into ethanol based home brews that's his prerogative. Aqueous mixtures are clearly the preferred solvents, hence the special Epson gloop, which works better than any of the suggested homemade formulas. But it's expensive and the key ingredient in that is not readily available to Do-It-Yourselfers is it. As for rubbing alcohol, the presence of water as an ink solvent should be balanced against the possible damage ethyl or methyl salycilates could do to the plastics in the print head. These 'wintergreen' rubificents will soften plastics if allowed prolonged contact and they don't evaporate very quickly. That's the underlying reason I wouldn't recommend rubbing alcohol as an ingredient. However, I'm much more interested in the glycol type components which render the aqueous detergent system so effective. Have you any insights on that?
Cheers, JaX
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| Re: Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (4/16/07 4:21 PM) reply | + / - | Why do you think Epson are now pushing the 'Claria' dye based ink system instead of the resin/pigment Durabrite stuff? Go figure.
JaX
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dnadan1 (4/16/07 7:41 PM) reply | + / - | This is a good walk through. I did use the German site, but let Google translate it. Just Google search the link and it will give you the option to translate.
Also, I used a paperclip, syringe and Windex, seems to be a good solvent for the clog in the tube. It might take you a while with the paperclip and Windex to get the plug of ink small enough to force solvent through. Keep forcing Windex through and using your paperclip to help, but you should be able to clean almost all of the ink out and have a clear clean tube.
One thing to note, If you spend time to clean the large and small tubes, do not forget to clean the connector on the cartridge which connects the small and large tubing, On mine this was clogged as well.
Once the printer was assembled enough to try a print, cleaned the printheads once and tried printing a page. Didn't work completely perfect, but it was a start.
I'm still having problems with banding.
Good luck and hope this helps
dnadan1
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by kofu (4/25/07 5:35 AM) reply | + / - | Same problem as everyone. LOGICALLY, it must be that the act of replacing a cartridge introduces a glitch into the hydraulics system.
The "cleaning" process presumably resolves that glitch, an indirect result. (I guess I'll try it.)
Our story: We got the printer FREE with a new (Mac mini) computer. Nothing wrong with "free," except for the burden on the environment from trashed printers. If only we had known to stop using it when the ink ran out...
We used the printer only occasionally, no problems. Ran out of ink after a couple of years, and bought replacement cartridges -- ORIGINAL MANUFACTURER!!! Printer reported the other cartridges were empty, one after another, and they were replaced, but it wouldn't print at all, nary a dot!
Has anyone read "Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance"? Logically, the problem is a defect in the equipment, and only indirectly has to do with "cleaning."
I find it hard to believe that they deliberately manufactured and sold a piece of equipment with such a high failure rate for the simple process of changing the cartridge. But honestly, Epson, is it a bug, or is it a "feature" (intended by the company)?
The only unanswered question is, DOES IT EVER WORK AFTER CARTRIDGES ARE REPLACED? This page would tend to attract just the people (only a fraction of a percent of the total) who've run into the problem.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by moodybob (4/25/07 7:44 AM) reply | + / - | As I previously reported, I determined the problem with this series of Epson printers to be caused by the pigment based inks sold by Epson and other providers. After flushing all ink ports with the solution from fixyourownprinter.com I installed new ink cartridges from 123inks.com and have had no further difficulty. In fact, the colors are more brilliant than with other inks. I can only assume that 123inks are dye based rather than pigment.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (4/25/07 12:02 PM) reply | + / - | Hello moodybob,
At last! Someone agrees with me! The primary cause of Epson printing problems is Durabrite pigmented ink. Use dye based compatibles and an Epson will perform as well and last as long as any other brand.
Cheers, JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dinosnake (4/26/07 6:40 AM) reply | + / - | Of course, the basis of the problem is due to the Durabright pigment inks and their high solids content. But Epson, and other manufacturers, switched to pigments for a reason - dye-based inks are not stable for archival purposes. The dyes fade over time.
So take your pick: pigment inks and more printer problems, or dye inks and less print stability.
Again, with Canon and HP printers since the head assembly is either integral with the ink system, or replaceable, when the pigment inks start clogging the print system you (can) replace almost all of the ink handling system.
Epson's problem is the pigment ink when used in conjunction with their non-user replaceable piezoelectric print head assembly. When the assembly technology was originally designed pigment inks did not exist for home inkjet use and therefore this clogging issue was never a point of design concern. Epson's issues rise from the fact that they have stuck with the same head technology and 'grafted' a new ink technology on top...an ink technology that simply is ill suited to the head properties.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (4/26/07 3:25 PM) reply | + / - | dinosnake,
Exactly. But how many Epson users need archival quality prints? Anyone who knows about archival standards will already be conversant with the required inks and will understand the printer's characteristics. Most people don't need that and will be using printer paper with a pretty short shelf life anyway. The Durabrite issue is more about marketing than good sense. Epson has conned millions of people with the Durabrite 100-year life story and are now paying the price. I just wish Epson users who flood to this forum would get the message. I'm sure the managers could do more in this regard but the sale of head cleaner is a nice little earner without doubt.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dvguy (5/5/07 3:54 PM) reply | + / - | I had the same problem when I switched from generic ink cartridges to Genuine Epson ink cartridges. The page printed blank. This simple low tech method worked for me, hopefully it will work for you.
1. Fill a sport water bottle with warm water.
2. Hit the ink button on the printer and remove the ink cartridges. Leave the carraige lid open and turn OFF the printer. Close the lid if you left it open. Slide the carriage to the center of the printer. This will prevent splashing water onto electrical parts.
3. Squeeze water from the bottle onto the print heads and fill up the small plastic cup surrounding the print heads. I let it soak overnight.
4. Next morning, place ink cartridges back in. Turn on printer and run a nozzle check and print. The first page will be wet becase of the water. The page may jam, but just pull it out by hand. The next page should print dry and crisp.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Mike Maxim (5/7/07 1:33 PM) reply | + / - | I have owned several Epson printers over the years and I have clogged the print heads on all of them by failing to use them often enough. Today my C86 failed to print and I'll take it to the repair shop to have the heads cleaned. $75 Canadian.
It seems to me that the solution to my problem would be to have a piece of software that would automatically print a page often enough to prevent the ink from drying out too much.
I don't believe that this problem is exclusive to the Epson printers, it just wouldn't make sense.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Sue Ragan (5/10/07 1:14 AM) reply | + / - | Dear Mike,
This is specifically in answer to a concern of yours, but hopefully it can be helpful to more people with ink clogging problems. First, let me confess that I had also been a victim of abuse by a terrible little Epson C-86 about a year ago, which caused sudden disappearance of black and colored printing due to clogging, literally over a 30 minute period. If I had known about this website at that time, I may have tried to "fix" this pathetic example of a maladjusted printing clunker, but I gave up on it. I didn't throw it away though, but stuffed it in a closet, and would kick it occasionally until my therapist told me I was just exerting good energy after bad.
Anyways, onto more positive information. Mike, you mentioned you wished there were some type of a software program to automatically print out a printer test page, to avoid clogging. Well, guess what? There is. It is called "AutoPrint", and you can download it at "Http://www.inksupply.com/cobra_canon.cfm#ap". You need to go to the "Autoprint-PC Version" paragraph and click on "Autoprint" to download. It is a 700kb utility, and this is what they say. "This is software for PC's that use the Windows Task Scheduler to automatically make a print of our Purge6 image (or any other of your choosing), once per day. This is very handy for those who do not print frequently, or are gone away from their digital darkroom for days at a time. By installing Autoprint, it will help prevent your printer with continuous flow from dropping nozzles or developing other problems caused by infrequent printing. We only recommend use of this program if you are having difficulties with nozzles clogging." Well, I found it just today, and it actually works. So, hopefully this will help you too.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Mike Maxim (5/10/07 8:01 AM) reply | + / - | I got my printer back from the repair shop yesterday. I had bought all new ink cartridges on April 17,2007 (3 weeks ago) at this store. The minimum wage "technician" who was in charge of fixing my machine insulted me by accusing me of using refilled cartridges, used the wrong solvent for DURAbrite ink, didn't know that he was supposed to clean the purge tube, and used up every drop of colored ink that I had and 75% of my black. This head cleaning cost me $150. The printer worked ok for 3 pages of printing and is skipping badly again.
Since I use the color rarely I bought a cheap B&W laser printer at another store.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by mike maxim (5/10/07 8:43 AM) reply | + / - | My problems with the C86 printer were entirely because of my misunderstandings of how the printer works.
The first mistake was:
Fact #1 the cleaning cycle uses up a great deal of ink plus Fact #2 the printer cleans the heads everytime you turn it off and on. Therefore, the MISTAKE is that the printer uses up ink everytime you turn it on.
When the machine powers down it retracts the print head onto a cleaning pad which wipes and seals the nozzles so that the ink won't dry out. The machine doesn't use up ink when it powers up.
Therefore, the printer should be shut off everytime you finish your print task.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by mike maxim (5/10/07 11:34 AM) reply | + / - | Mistake #2
Epson printers start whining that they want me to replace the cartridges way too early. I ignored the warnings and didn't replace the cartridges until they were completely empty.
All ink jet printers operate by heating the print heads until the ink bubbles. The ink acts as coolant for the print head. When you run the print head without ink in the cartridges it bakes the residue to the print head from over heating.
In the future I must replace the cartridges before they are completely empty.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by coleisaac (5/10/07 11:56 AM) reply | + / - | Update: Followed Dinosnake's instructions (date 2/7/07 this thread) & it worked beautifully. My C86 was back up & running on 3/6/07 & has printed beautifully every day since. Thanks Snake!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by mike maxim (5/10/07 12:00 PM) reply | + / - | Mistake #3
I assumed that people who were in the business, and that were charging me $75 per hour, knew what they were doing.
Durabrite inks are waterproof and require a different solvent than the other printers that the technicians are familiar with. The owner of the cartridge refilling shop (who has been in business for at least 20 years selling business equipment) didn't know that he had been refilling his customers' cartridges with the wrong kind of ink.
He was adamant that no inkjet printer was waterproof and was visibly shocked when a page from my c86 didn't run when he ran water over it in the sink. He then admitted that he couldn't refill these cartridges.
This was the cause of the death of my C66 but not my C86 because I won't use refilled cartridges anymore.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (5/12/07 4:23 PM) reply | + / - | Hello Mike
Your C86 must be different from mine. Mine goes through the cleaning/purging cycle at startup following a power down. How does yours power itself down? The parking routine simply follows the end of a print task and doesn't involve cleaning/purging.
I never power down my C86 and it's been running two years without a hitch. I have my own techniques for ensuring ink supply (not CIS)
JaX
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (edited 5/12/07 4:47 PM) reply | + / - | Hello again Mike
How do you circumvent the 'empty cart' mechanism built into the Epson software? When the software says my cart's empty the machine stops, I can't ignore it and continue. Are you using some different software to allow you to do this? The SSC utility (Ink Freezer) simply slows down the process, but when the ink counter finally zeros, I can't continue. I have to attend to the carts by resetting the chips. Do you have any insights on this countdown function which allows you to carry on till carts are completely empty?
Epson print heads use the piezoelectric system to fire the ink not heat. You're thinking of the bubblejet effect used by Cannon etc. How do you run your C86 printhead without any ink? See questions above. Do you have special software? Do you have any insights to tell?
I believe the primary cause of blocked jets in Epsons is cured Dyrabrite ink. Once cured it's almost impossible to shift
JaX
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (5/12/07 4:38 PM) reply | + / - | Hello again Mike,
This is very interesting 'cos I've spent a lot of time looking at the solvent for Durabrite ink. As you say, Durabrite is 'waterproof' - well it is when it has dried and cured. Before then, it is thinnable with water - as all inkjet inks are. What carts has the guy been refilling? I've examined Durabrite carts in detail and it's not possible to refill them with pigment inks nor any other type. I guess you mean compatibles eh? Personally, I'd never use Durabrite in a domestic printer. It's the cause of 99% of Epson problems.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem - TELL IT LIKE IT IS !! by MrGlock2 (5/21/07 1:49 AM) reply | -1 + / - | Do you work for Epson or something? The absurdity is that these Epson printers are not only defective but, in addition, Epson refuses to take the appropriate responsibility and handle the situation in an acceptable manner. Yes, the printer I bought was one of their less expensive models and yes, I understood the salesperson as he fully described what it could/could not do relative to the rest of the Epson line. However he did not tell me, nor was it written on the box, in the owners manual or anywhere else that the printer WOULD STOP WORKING AT THE FIRST INK CARTIDGE CHANGE! Which is exactly what happened. This printer was on my children's computer and, unfortunately had just ran out of warranty only days before. I don't care if the printer cost $5 ... this is ridiculous.
You would think that Epson would offer a little more than a $9.95 charge just to tell me now that I need to replace it and that they'll give me a loyalty "deal" (which was no deal at all as newegg, staples, and countless others had the same printer for even less money) on another equally problematic piece-of-crap printer.
So, being the thrillseeker I am, I tried my own hand at things. Douched the printhead and excess ink purge lines, put in new original Epson cartridges at another $50 pop, ran it through several cleaning cycles, etc and ... nothing. Blank pages still.
So, I got to reading on this site about how Epson was sued over the deceptive practice of programming their chipped cartridges to quit with 20 - 30% of ink left in them. But, I was still left wondering why it wouldn't print given a new set of cartridges along with everything else I did. Then I came to find out that it was likely that, in all my troubleshooting, I had used one to many cleaning cycles (I probably tried about 15 or 20 during the whole process), and that I likely exceeded the cleaning cycle limit that is dictated by an Eprom ... which Epson also conveniently refuses to publicly advertise. In fact, when I called them to find out why they programmed the printer to fail regardless of its condition, and to get an answer as to how to get past the Eprom issue they flat-out refused to tell me. They said that that info isn't for "end-users", only for their certified repair centers. Hmmmm. They wouldn't even let me access an exploded diagram, citing the same BS reason. So, it's obvious that not only did Epson underhandedly and fraudulently gouge unwitting customers by making their cartridges crap out early ... to make things even worse, they made their printers to do the same ... even though there is actually not a thing wrong with it.
Now THAT's one helluva greedy & dirty company! People complain all the time about the profits & greed of Exxon. But, hey, at least Exxon is honest. They charge a price, and we choose whether or not we're willing to pay it, but at least you get exactly what you paid them for. In comparison, Epson makes Exxon look like choirboys.
For their knowingly deceptive and dishonest practices, and their smugness while screwing their customers, I hope Epson looses so much market share & credibility that they belly-up. It's nothing short of what they really deserve, which is to first be flogged by the USB cords that come in the box ... which is the only thing that's in there that wasn't built by them to go tango uniform for no reason. Maybe we'll be seing a proprietary printer cable from Epson next ... something right out of Mission Impossible". F Epson.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by New C88 (5/26/07 2:41 PM) reply | + / - | C86 started printing blank pages. Had extended warranty and they easily sent a new C88.
I had several C86 cartidges left, including the ones in the printer. I have discovered that by pulling off the little circuit board things and swapping them around that the C86 cartridges will fit and work in the C88. Other than I am not using the DuraBright Ultra inks, does anyone see a problem with this? I have run a test page the printer prints fine with the C86 cartriges.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (edited 5/28/07 3:51 AM) reply | + / - | Hello New C88
You've done the best possible thing to keep your Epson running for years. Use non-Durabrite inks and use the printer at least once a week.
JaX
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| Re: Hp PSC 1510 ink problem by ciara (5/30/07 8:47 PM) reply | + / - | I put ihe ink cartridge in backwards and it won't come out for nothing in the world. If you have a solution please e-mail me as soon as possible
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by kila (6/5/07 5:52 AM) reply | + / - | i just spent about 3 hours trying the ideas posted on this message board, and after all that cleaning, my printer is now saying that the brand new black ink cartridge i bought last night is out of ink! i am so angry with epson right now. i will NEVER buy ANYTHING from epson ever again!
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by kila (6/5/07 6:13 AM) reply | + / - | i'm going to find a nice high rooftop today and toss this piece of crap off and watch it explode into 100's of worthless pieces. i'll drink to epson going belly up!!!
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/5/07 1:30 PM) reply | + / - | kila,
My advice. Buy a chip resetter to cure the 'empty, but it's not' issues. Install the SSC Utility and uninstall the Epson Status Manager to maximise ink useage. Dump the Durabrites and use dye based inks. Epsons last for years if used regularly and not allowed near Durabrite inks and not allowed to dry out.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (6/5/07 2:02 PM) reply | + / - | That sounds like very good advice. I hope it works too because I'm also at the end of my rope with the durabrite ink printers. Where can the correct cartridges be found, but with the dye-based ink in them?
Tom
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (6/9/07 10:11 PM) reply | + / - | This is a fairly incredible thread. Just thought I'd say I too just ran into this problem (changed black cartridge... now black won't print). Will try to call Epson tomorrow.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/10/07 8:24 AM) reply | + / - | Save your breath! Replace (as in uninstall) the Epson Status Manager software with the SSC Utility. Then run the Black Only head cleaning routine using SSC. This saves the other inks instead of wasting them a'la Epson. If you normally use Durabrites, ensure you run a print off every single week otherwise you'll get a clogged printhead which requires even more work. Use SSC to slow down ('Freeze') the ink use counters. This makes carts last much longer. You can also Hot Swap carts without going through the Epson ink wasting routines, etc. etc.
JaX
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/10/07 8:27 AM) reply | + / - | Tom,
Most compatible carts use dye based inks. They're much cheaper for that and many other reasons. Unless you MUST have prints that last 100 years, dump the Durabrites and ease your pain.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by coleisaac (6/10/07 1:12 PM) reply | + / - | I know the answer is probably somewhere in this lengthy thread, but to keep from re-reading each post, can someone tell me where to buy the NON-Durabrite ink cartridges?
Thanks!
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/10/07 2:56 PM) reply | + / - | coleisaac,
Go to eBay and type 'C86' into the search field. You'll find hundreds of compatible carts to fit your printer.
JaX
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| Re Epson C86 ink probs - Thanks to waveguide (JaX) by MrGlock2 (6/20/07 10:06 AM) reply | + / - | Thanks for your valuable info/advice. I'm going to try the dye-based ink before I drop-kick this thing. I spent many, many hours screwing with it, cleaning the printhead, the waste ink tubes, etc. I got it completely clean except for the yellow portion of the printhead. For some reason, the yellow ink just wasn't breaking up, even with the head sitting in the solution and the inlet full of solution for several days. I think that once I get that taken care of, and switch from the durabrite ink everything will work OK. Thanks again for your replies.
Tom
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by russfraz (6/22/07 10:25 AM) reply | + / - | My c86 won't respond-At all.A week ago,it printed fine-Then i replaced the black ink.Blurry prints.ONE 2-page fair print,now as i said,the printer won't do anything.Is it dead?Any help is greatly appreciated.(Just out of warranty of course)I got the 25.00 check and 20.00 online 'coupon' which won't even buy one epson inkjet.I'm going to demand that they rectify my situation.planetfeedback.com is a great place,any issues with a company go right to the CEO.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/22/07 2:32 PM) reply | + / - | russfraz,
You mean it's just 'dead', no flashing lights, no steady lights, nothing?
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by russfraz (6/22/07 2:50 PM) reply | + / - | The power light is on,but it won't even try to print when i tell it to now.(steady green light)
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/22/07 3:04 PM) reply | + / - | russfraz,
Check the pc to printer cabling, exchange if posible. Reinstall the Epson driver stuff and see if that helps.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (6/22/07 3:57 PM) reply | + / - | Thanks guys-I'll reinstall the drivers-Everything went south once i put a new(Epson)cartridge in;From blurry prints,to no printing to now not recognizing the commands.I'll try it,though and let you know.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (6/23/07 3:31 AM) reply | + / - | New driver and updating windows seems to have done the trick(fingers crossed).
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (6/23/07 4:32 AM) reply | + / - | Fingers crossed didn't work-Printed pages after updates when computer restarted.Now when i click print,it SAYS that it is printing but nothing happens.Power light on and steady.(getting closer,i think?)What's my next step?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (6/23/07 7:47 AM) reply | + / - | OK,now this is weird-The printer only prints after i try to print something,then reboot-it starts printing what i tried to print before.But not when i actually want it to print.Any suggestions?
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/23/07 12:02 PM) reply | + / - | russfraz (?)- please sign in so we know who's talking.
This sounds like a software issue to me. Have you checked the default printer setting in the Control Panel? Is there just the one printer shown? Do you have the SSC Utility running? Do you have a cartridge chip resetter? If so, reset the chip on the empty Epson cart and retry that. See if the printer behaves differently with the Epson chip.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by russfraz (6/23/07 12:14 PM) reply | + / - | Sorry,JaX-it's me,russfraz.I've got Epson c86 as the default printer(it's the only one i have)It is the only printer shown.I don't have the SSC utility running(I have to get that and disable something from Epson,don't i?)Noy sure if i have a chip resetter-None of my cartridges are emply,i have plenty of cartridges.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/23/07 1:01 PM) reply | + / - | hi russfraz,
The idea was to go back to all Epson carts/chips (preferably not reading 'empty') to see if the printer wakes up. You said the problems started when you fitted a non-Epson cart. Some cart/chips seem to upset Epson printers, but I thought it was mainly the latest models. Worth a try anyway.
JaX
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/23/07 1:14 PM) reply | + / - | russfraz,
Another thought about the strange printing behaviour. When you initiate a print, check what's shown on the print queue. This pops up when you right click the printer icon on the toolbar (only shows when a print is called). The print queue should show the job you are expecting to be printed. Does it, or is it blank?
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by russfraz (6/24/07 2:05 PM) reply | + / - | It is blank.That's the real strange part.It doesn't want to perform the commands at all.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/24/07 6:28 PM) reply | + / - | russfraz,
That indicates it's sending the print data to another 'printer' or location ie:'a file' somewhere. Something in the software chain is in error. When you ask for the default printer to print the data, it should indicate so in the print queue. I suggest you do a System Restore to a date prior to your printing problems and see if that cures it. I think all this cannot be related to the cartridge swap, but is coincidental.
Cheers, JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by dinosnake (6/25/07 7:45 AM) reply | + / - | Check your Event Viewer for system (Spooler) or software errors. It sounds like the spooler subsystem is not properly starting, or it is locking up.
Try turning off your Epson Print Preview - it is sometimes flakey - to see if this helps.
Make sure two directories:
c:\Windows\temp
C:\Documents and Settings\%login user name%\Local Settings\Temp
have permissions set so that you can access them (if using Windows XP Pro).
If nothing seems to work:
Uninstall the Epson printer software and then disconnect the printer from the computer.
Then go into the Printers control panel and click File \ Server Properties. Find ALL Epson print drivers and DELETE them. Reboot.
Reinstall printer drivers, reconnect printer to computer.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by russfraz (6/25/07 10:13 AM) reply | + / - | Using XP Home,if that makes a difference.Hve turned off print preview,will try the rest and uninstall/reinstall if all else fails.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (7/4/07 10:34 AM) reply | + / - | I had a problem with my Epson refusing to print and I would wind up with more than one printer installed in my printer/fax window.
I discovered when I was installing the printer it was asking if I had a serial or usb connection. I had missed this and was using usb and it installed with serial selected.
I deleted all printers and installed it with the usb selectin and now it works fine.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (7/21/07 9:57 PM) reply | + / - | I just had our C86 fail to print after replacing a cartridge. I tried cleaning the tubes with a wire, but no luck. Guess I'll need to use a solvent. This printer worked for a few years and a couple of cartridge changes. Now I'm got $60 of new and useless cartridges. I noticed that the local stores aren't selling many models of epson ink jet printers anymore so I guess their market share is decreasing.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (7/22/07 9:23 AM) reply | + / - | Your C86 will last for years if you don't allow the print head to dry out for even a short time. If you take my advice, you'll dump the Durabrites and use dye based compatibles. Your print head probably needs cleaning of dried Durabrite ink. I suggest you purchase a pack of the cleaning gloop they sell on this site. Read the details provided about unblocking the jets and with a bit of luck, your C86 will live again. Just do a logical search. Everything you need to know has been discussed ad nausium on these pages.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by drs (edited 7/31/07 2:58 PM) reply | + / - | I got three of the settlement checks for use in the Epson store. I used one of them to get a C88+ from the remanufactured/clearance group. It cost me an extra $6.00.
I quickly went through the black cartridge, which I do not believe was full and then went to replace it. The colors were working and now I can't get anything to print. So basically for $6.00, I got a few prints and now it has to be thrown away, at least that's what the service rep told me to do with it. He's going to replace it, so I guess I'll get a few more prints from this one as well.
I tried to fix it assuming that the purge line was clogged. These things are not meant to be easily taken apart. I suppose there's a pump hidden in the back somewhere, but I could never get to it. I'm not sure it would have made any difference anyway.
I said that I would never buy another Epson printer, but this allowed me to get a $6.00 one. That's about all that they're worth, IMO. Correction, they're not even worth $6.00.
Edit: I finally got to the pump. This printer will never be back together again, but I know how it works. There is a peristaltic
pump that sucks the ink through the purge tube. If you don't know what that is, it's basically a roller pump in which a roller squeezes the tube as the roller moves around in a circle.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peristaltic_pump
The tube on my printer was not clogged at all, so I have to believe that I had a print head failure. More the reason to throw it all away.
After I blow through my warranty replacement, there won't be any Epson printers in my future.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem - get rid of it by Anonymous (8/1/07 2:07 AM) reply | +1 + / - | I came to the conclusion that, even if I did manage to get the Epson working again, the time and effort wouldn't be worth it and the printer would still likely be a constant source of problems. So, for about the same price I picked up the Canon Pixma ip4300. The picture quality isn't bad, but not quite as good as the Epson (when it worked). Other than that though, the Canon is superior in every way ... amount of paper it holds, dual feed sources (you can load plain paper in one and envelopes, photo paper, etc in the other), auto duplexing, WAY faster printing, etc., etc. I bought mine for $80 from Staples. Since then, the Epson's been nothing more than a bad memory.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (8/7/07 1:36 PM) reply | + / - | Unbelievable- same thing here with the Epson C86. First it was the black ink cartridge..changed that and was able to print b/w pages for a few days. Not even a week later, all three of my color ink cartridges need replacement (blue, cyan, magenta) and after installing...BLANK PAGES. And yes, I was sure to purchase Epson brand cartridges. I have never had a product that was prone to this much difficulty. Must admit it is a bit comforting reading these posts and knowing I'm not crazy and have exhausted all the realistic options (including the tech support for over an hour two days in a row with a guy from India).
As almost eveyone else has said- I'm going to HP.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (8/9/07 10:36 PM) reply | + / - | THIS WILL SOLVE ALL YOUR PROBLEMS:
CLEAN THE TUBE WHERE THE EXCESS INK PASSES THRU DURING CLEANING. IT IS DEFINITELY CLOGGED! USE 70% OR 90% ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL, USE AN APPROX 10ML SYRINGE WITHOUT THE NEEDLE AND INSERT IT INTO THE TUBE. INJECT ALCOHOL INTO IT. THEN SUCK IT USING THE SYRINGE. REPEAT AS NECESSARY UNTIL YOU GET A CLEANER LOOKING LIQUID.
I DID THIS AND IT SOLVED MY PROBLEM!! THANKS TO ONE OF THE POSTERS HERE! I HAVE AN EPSON CX3500 / CX3600
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (8/10/07 3:32 AM) reply | + / - | A blocked waste ink tube is only one of several issues that will stop an Epson working. If yours was caused by the tube, then great, you managed to fix it. But please don't assume it's the only problem. There are more serious ones which don't fix that easy.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by pouncer73 (9/2/07 8:16 AM) reply | + / - | Hey I have read throgh the posts. Here is what I did to fix my printing problem. Take out all the cartridges, use a cotton swab dipped in alchol and clean around each of the entry tubes that the catridges go into. Use one cotton swap for each entry tube.
Worked like a Charm.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by melbam (11/30/07 1:52 PM) reply | + / - | Thanks so much for this post. My problem was a large spring which just appeared when I took out the paper tray. The pictures on the German website helped me get it back into the right place and the printer is now working.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by pouncer73 (12/1/07 4:57 AM) reply | + / - | You are most welcome! What spring are you talking about? I want to know just in case I encounter the same issue.
Thanks,
Claudio
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by The Grinch (12/18/07 8:09 AM) reply | + / - | My c86 has now got the dreaded flashing lights (alternating between ink and paper). I had the message that parts needed replacing, and I presume that the printer has now "expired". Any help out there?
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (1/4/08 4:34 PM) reply | + / - | What is the "Loyalty program, and you'll be eligible for a free repair. The C84 was recently added." and where do I find it for my now nonfunctioning C84 printer?
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Garnet (1/11/08 3:42 PM) reply | + / - | Thank you to dinosnake. I took everything apart like you said to do. I blew out a ton of hardened ink from the plastic tube. So now the printer is printing. Mostly good.
Black and Magenta print clear.
Cyan and Yellow are spotty.
Ran the Clean Print Head thing a couple of times.
Still Cyan and Yellow are spotty.
Anyone have a tip?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by fotobug (1/16/08 4:35 PM) reply | + / - | My C86 was saying 'some parts are reaching the end of it's service life' and then just stopped.
I saw where
Art Houston said:
"I powered on the printer, and after it clicked a couple of times and began making a continuous noise, I pulled the power cord. This leaves the carriage free to move by hand, and you’ll need to do that".
The red lights are flashing and the printer won't so anything.
How can I manually move the carriage that holds ink cartridges?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Garnet (1/16/08 8:21 PM) reply | + / - | I followed the instructions by "dinosnake". Here is the portion about taking out the cartridge head....
Turn power on to unit. When head moves away from right-hand side of unit it is therefore unlocked. At any time, once the head is not in the fully right-hand parked position pull out the power plug.
The head will now be free to move left or right (carefully).
Move head to cartridge changing area and remove all cartridges. Set cartridges aside.
Unload paper. Disconnect power and USB/parallel cables.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by fotobug (1/17/08 10:08 PM) reply | + / - | Thanks but the problem is that it won't move from the right at all. I'm trashing it. I do appreciate the response.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by jktk1953 (2/16/08 7:26 PM) reply | + / - | I cleaned out the tubes, bought the cleaning solution and took out the cleaning assembly. I have one small problem now. Maybe it will be a big one unless someone can explain it to me. I know where the one end of the small tube connects to under the cleaning assembly but where the does the other end of the small tube connect to?
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (2/17/08 4:00 PM) reply | + / - | It attaches to the peristaltic pump which conveys waste ink into the pads located in the base. I think you'll find the other piece of tubing under there has a push on joiner. This is from the pump. The join often comes apart and causes the cleaning assembly to malfunction due to floodng. Use tweezers to reassemble the connection.
JaX
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (3/12/08 6:50 AM) reply | -1 + / - | haha losers
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by printerman60 (3/21/08 4:25 PM) reply | + / - | wow. I wonder if it is worth the effort for a sub $100 printer.
I did try the print solution Moe sent me, and the black and yellow did flush out. The other colours..with the use of the provided syringe kept bouncing back. But we shall persist.
We are going to try the flush the purge tube..very carefully.
There are a lot of Epson printer out there, and I hate to trash. Most epsons here are given to the customer when they purchase a computer system.
This print head problem has been an ongoing problem with all Epsons, from the low end to the high end signage printers, which ironically use, what appears to be the same type of print head.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by printerman60 (3/21/08 4:25 PM) reply | + / - | wow. I wonder if it is worth the effort for a sub $100 printer.
I did try the print solution Moe sent me, and the black and yellow did flush out. The other colours..with the use of the provided syringe kept bouncing back. But we shall persist.
We are going to try the flush the purge tube..very carefully.
There are a lot of Epson printer out there, and I hate to trash. Most epsons here are given to the customer when they purchase a computer system.
This print head problem has been an ongoing problem with all Epsons, from the low end to the high end signage printers, which ironically use, what appears to be the same type of print head.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (4/5/08 10:14 AM) reply | + / - | Hi, Is there anyone here who would attempt to clean my printer for me? I'd sure pay anyone who'd like to try as I know I can't do it.
The printer hasn't been used enough to empty a tank of ink (any color) but was misplaced when I moved and ended up in storage for a year.
Thanks,
Spurtrax
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Roger D. Bridges (4/24/08 8:21 AM) reply | + / - | I cannot get the Magenta to print a solid color. When I try to pring a solid color I only get Magenta solid lines across the page. They are evenly spaced and about and about double-spaced vertical distance.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Bill Ryder (5/5/08 11:32 AM) reply | + / - | Believe it or not, I read the ENTIRE series of responses. Since I am almost 72 years old and am not a "Mr. Fixit." I will just junk the C86 and four brand new cartridges and get something else. It may even be an Epson. Will not lose anything, except the cartridges, since I got the C86 "free" when I purchased my Mac. Thanks to all that actually worked to "fix" the problem we all seem to have.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by k_ron (5/5/08 9:02 PM) reply | + / - | Five of my epson c90 and a CX3900 have the same magenta problem. And all of them has been useful to me in no more than 5 months. I brought it to printer repair shop a couple of weeks ago, the repair man asked my contact number and said that he will contact me as soon as he found out whats the problem is because they also have 15 units of epson c90 inside their shop that also have the same problem as mine.
com'on guys! lets face it, Epson is the kind of company that would sacrifice quality and the satisfaction of their customers for more profit.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by anonymous (6/13/08 4:51 PM) reply | + / - | I have read many concerns of the issues that I am having. I used my printer at school where I had to pay for the printer and all cartridges myself. This wasn't part of the school budget. My black cartridge quit printing. I even had a computer smart parent look at my computer, but he couldn't get my printer to work either. I have read all your fix-its. I will try to get mine to work. But...I also read where a couple states had litigations against the Epson company for a product that was less than acceptable. That litigation was in 2006. Why has epson not fixed the issue. Also since the litigation was over in 2006, I couldn't get my money back. I learned of this from an Office Max clerk. He said he would never sell another epson product unless the customer truly wanted that particular product. I know that I didn't pay a large amount for my printer (in fact I have a C64 and a C84) I bought them because of the good deal, or so I thought. I know that I have cartidges that I probably won't be able to use. I will be looking for something to use that is more dependable.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by WaveGuide (6/14/08 12:00 PM) reply | + / - | I have an Epson C86 Photo and I will only use dye based inks in it. I refill all my carts on the fly and have not had a significant issue with performance in over three years. I use the SSC Utility to manage all my servicing needs. I uninstalled the Epson servicing monitor as it wastes more ink than you use making prints. If your printer came with Durabrite type or other form of pigmented inks, then I'm convinced this is the cause of 99% of Epson printing problems. I recommend you dump the Durabrites and choose a dye system instead. These pigmented/resinified inks are designed to be used very frquently otherwise they will 'cure' in the printhead leading to impossible blockages. Even the special Epson formulated flushing gloop will have trouble clearing these blockages. Most people simply give up and junk the printer. On current performance, my C86 will more likely fail due to some mechanical issue with the drive gears or belts before it actually stops printing.
WG
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (8/25/08 11:41 PM) reply | + / - | i have a problem also with the epson c90 and it involves paper feed. . . my printer is working properly then it stopped, only to find out that the paper feed is not working, i even tried to guide the paper- still does not work. . . can u tell me how to fix this problem?
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by tango1879 (12/26/08 10:54 PM) reply | + / - | I read everybody's post regarding the disassembly of the Epson Stylus C86. I followed everyones's direction and disassembled the printer. I located the tube and sure enough it was clogged. I unclogged it with a syringe and reassembled the printer. Now the printer works as good as new. Thank you for posting the directions, otherwise, I would have kept trying the head cleaning and that would have never worked.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (3/2/09 12:29 PM) reply | + / - | Chris, I think the reason it does this is that the ink dries very quickly after it's exposed to the air. I had the same problems with mine and unclogging the tubes was the fix.
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| Garbage Pint outs and Wasted Paper by erodez (3/22/09 12:32 PM) reply | + / - | I have C86 Epson printer that I had in storage for a while. I decided to install it. I downloaded and installed a driver. The computer recognized the c86 printer. I was able to successfully print a test page.
After I connect the printer to the computer and turn on the printer the printer starts to print garbage data printouts. After the first page print out which is several lines the printouts are less than 10 charactors on one line and then another page is fed in. The one line print outs per page continue until the printer runs out of paper.
If any one has come across this problem and found a solution, please let me know.
erodez
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| Re: Epson C86 problem by maton (4/18/09 4:26 PM) reply | + / - | All of a sudden my printer is leaving specks of ink on my printouts. I have done all of the print head cleaning, nozzle checks, etc. I am so frustrated bc I am trying to print some note cards.
Thanks!
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| Re: Garbage Pint outs and Wasted Paper by dinosnake (5/12/09 11:38 AM) reply | + / - | 1) Do not disconnect the printer once it has finished its initial installation. Simply turn it on and off. If you disconnect the printer from the USB port and then reconnect it to a different USB connector port, the computer attempts to reinstall the drivers.
2) Purge the print buffer completely
3) If this problem continues uninstall the printer driver using the ADD-REMOVE PROGRAMS Control Panel applet, delete any remaining driver files you can spot for the Epson (ONLY!) from c:\windows\system32\spool\drivers\w32x86, DISCONNECT THE PRINTER FROM USB and reboot. Double-check to make sure you have the correct printer drivers for the model and OS needed, re-download the correct drivers if necessary, and then reinstall the drivers.
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| Re: Re: Epson C86 problem by dinosnake (5/12/09 11:42 AM) reply | + / - | Check the feed rollers for ink - if you run the cleaning cycle on an Epson too many times the heads can bleed ink onto the rollers once the heads move into operating position. Cleaning the rollers is a MAJOR PAIN, so hopefully this is not the problem.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by tsth (6/15/09 11:17 AM) reply | + / - | The only remedy I have found is to change the ink color on the document to burgandy(for sure) or some other color. Then I can print the document. Problem with printing has something to do with the black color on mine. Will just quit printing out of the blue for no reason???
So, if I change my document color, I can get the document printed...if it's an emergency.
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| Re: Re: Re: Epson C86 ink problem by Anonymous (9/19/09 9:23 AM) reply | + / - | I guess we got what we paid for. My C86 is my 3rd Epson printer.
I had a C82, C84 and I was stupid enough to buy a C86. Every one of them did the same thing. THere have been posts on here about not letting the printer sit to long without being used.. BULL.. You better have a new set of cartridges ready to go in the printer before the original ones go out or it is toast and even then getting the new ones to work properly is only a 50/50 chance. Epson hasn't made a decent printer since the "impact printer age". I have been in the computer business since 1983 and I am here to tell you that EPSON IS JUNK !....
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by yellowduck (9/26/09 3:27 AM) reply | + / - | Our c86 showed the "no print output" symptom after lying unused for about 2 months. Epson UK chatline told me "printer needs service or repair" (My Goodness, they're so CLEVER these people!) but seemed to have no idea what might be wrong with it, or that this was a widespread problem with the c86. Pity, because our Stylus color 760 has functioned perfectly for more than 10 years - most of that time using recycled cartridges.
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| Re: Epson C86 ink problem by DonF4860 (11/29/09 2:41 PM) reply | + / - | My c86 prints giant is leaving gaps in my text and photo prints. It's like there's a wide non-printing stripe across the page. It was working fine the other day and then ...
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