Clean HP 8600,8610 Print Head , Part 2 Advanced

Follow up video in more detail in cleaning an HP 8600 and 8610 Print Head. Please watch the 1st video. This is a follow up video going into a little more detail and repair if you inadvertently blow a hole in the thin plastic covering the reservoirs . It also shows a solvent that shows decent results in cleaning dried up ink. Results depend on how old and long your printhead has been dried out. If someone has found a perfect solvent to clear out dried ink please post your results in the comments section
If you haven't watched the 1st video here is the link...
• Cleaning Clogged HP pr...

[@michelle3821]

Hi Ray. What screws drivers did you use to open the printhead to fix the seals? They're so small and doubt I have the right screw drivers to turn the screws.

[@energizme100]

"FlexSeal" makes a thin rubber sort of "tape" more like a thin clear sheet that is VERY sticky. Also, "Gorilla Glue", makes a roll of clear tape that is very similar to the flex seal. I include both in my patch kit for on the river emergencies for the my white river raft to be able to patch my self bailing whitewater raft. Adding an additional strip to cover all 4 chambers would likely work better in keeping liquid glues from entering the chamber.

[@edlechner1049]

Ray, great videos. How do you keep the carriage that the print head assembly rides on from moving when the print head is removed? After some time ( 5-10 minutes?) it moves to the home position and then I can't get it a location where I can re-install the printhead assembly.

[@ruthgabriel2275]

Great video and well explained, thanks

[@MrKevhenn]

Great info, I cannot clear the magenta chamber. I broke the plastic and repaired it with boot-fix glue. I tried hot water, printhead cleaner, and vinegar, but nothing worked. I am thinking the printhead is to clogged. All other color chambers are clear just a problem with magenta. Any thoughts?? suggestions?? I spent a good bit of time trying to repair the plastic, If I can clear the magenta clog; can I replace the plastic on top of the wells??

[@zsoltibitter8761]

just an info. Recently i have cleaned my officejet pro 8100 printhead using syringe. Then i have sucked out the cleaning solution (70/30 distilled water/isopropyl alcohol) from those buffer tanks on the printhead. But then it did not work- the ink could not get through, it all remained in the cartridges. not a single drop of ink could get into the buffer tank from cartridges. I have printed out 50 pages without ink, i was lucky i did not burn the printhead. then i thought air could be the problem, since the buffer tanks are full of air, without any ink-liquid. then i had injected distilled water back into the buffer tanks, then it started working. i had to print a few color documents to push the watery solution out, its still a bit watery but its better and better now... now i have purchased a suction holder for this particular typ of printhead from aliexpress so i can attach it to the side where the printhead is located and i can pull the ink from cartridges into the buffer tank with syringe so i dont have to deal with water solution.

[@namolokaman2393]

For membrane repair, I'd try silicone sealant ( like: the kind used for sealing the edge of kitchen and bathroom sinks ). Silicon sealant is sticky as hell when not cured, and elastic - obviously.

[@MonarchGuy974]

One question. Will buying a new printhead fix the “Missing or Failed Printhead” Error?

[@namolokaman2393]

A handheld steam cleaner, filled with distilled water, can be very helpful in non-aggressively cleaning the face of printheads ( ex: Bissel Steamshot ), especially when directed at a glancing angle, i.e. nearly parallel to the surface. As far as cleaning fluids, for topical use ( applied directly to the nozzles, not through the printhead ), I have had much success with 'Eco Solvent Cleaning Solution', be it Roland-branded ( the one I used ) or compatible solution. I applied the solution via a soaked foam cleaning stick. This cleaning solution dissolved a stubborn aqueous-ink clot, located on the nozzles, in seconds. Notes: As always with inkjet printheads, rubbing back-and-forth is NOT recommended, only gentle perpendicular pressure; if rubbing is absolutely necessary, just pull the foam cleaning stick in one direction only, just once, to prevent jamming dust particles into the piezo nozzles. If water ever gets onto the printhead's circuit board, the best is to apply some lighter fluid to the PCB with a soft toothbrush, _very_ gently. Lighter fluid is dielectric ( an insulator ), and the oil in the fluid will prevent corrosion. Lighter fluid can also be used to clean up existing corrosion, as well - sometimes restoring functionality. I have seen a specialized YT channel ( search: SULINK OFICIAL ) insert flat strips of rubber in the gap between the bank of ink dampers, and the cartridge pressurization weir, right above it. I have done it myself, and noticed it does increase the audible force of the air puffs, during cartridge pressurization. I am hoping it will help keep both membranes glued longer, as well as minimize the chance for blowouts - we'll see!

[@saleh1395]

Thanks, I have the same problem and I don't know how to do the steps

[@YT2007XYZ]

First thank you for both Part 1 and Part 2 videos. They are very clear and understandable. One other possible product you could use to repair the thin plastic on the back side of the reservoir is “Shoe Goo”. I haven’t needed to try it personally but I’m guessing that it is very similar to your “Boot Fix Glue”. I’ve bought it at a big box building supply store. Also, when using your Orange Peel Solvent, why not just apply it directly to the print head and cover it with plastic wrap to keep it from drying out? One other comment about the thin plastic film and its requirement to be flexible. I was thinking more on the lines that this was a cheap way for HP to solve a manufacturing solution to creating a reservoir . You can easily mold a chamber, but how do you enclose it? So does it really have to be flexible? If it has to do with a vacuum, then I would think you could just glue a hard piece of thin plexiglas over the top?

[@2591BigT]

I have cleaned my print head, but my print head cables I noticed are bad can't install them because they are bad. The new ones didn't come with installation instructions for hp officeject 7612. Do you have a video on that?

[@azizaviation]

Great video thank you

[@aislingvacations]

Hi Ray! Hopefully the fabric glue will fix the tear I blew in the cyan port! Question: I snapped the plastic piece that pokes out and goes into the actual cartridge (ugh)! Can I try to glue this back or will the printer work without it????

[@RayZaplatar]

You have to glue it back. Use a pin or some thing of similar diameter as the hole. A pin may be to thin. Look at the break on the plastic so you align it to the break ,otherwise there may be a gap. Use super glue, .Put the pin through the hole so the glue won't fill up the inner hole. You may have to magnify it to see how it broke so you can allign it as if there is a misalignment it won't seal and won't work. It's a tough fix but worth a try. Good luck

[@robertsitser884]

Thanks for the videos, this should be part 1. I didn't realize I needed to take it apart and had to be careful with the thin plastic. I clean it, seemed to work good, but the printer has a code coming up that a carridge is missing or damaged. I put a new one in it, and got the same message.

[@RayZaplatar]

sometimes printer goes into a error fault . Sometimes you can get rid of it by installing a different cartridge. Clear the error then install the other cartridge. It's like you are using a working cartridge to clear the error then reinstall the cartridge that didn't work before. Sometimes the cmos on the mother board develops an error . You have to unplug machine for a day or so and remove all power. Then power it back on. If luchy the unit will correct itself. Sometimes you have to reinstall the firmware. Harder to do . And sometimes it's where the cartridge shoves into the printer head carriage and that part is buggered up. And sometimes it is actually that the printhead , like a small reservoir leak and you have to replace the print head (pricy) . And sometimes the PCB is done for and has to be replaced. . Sorry not to be more specific. If you can get a hold of a working printhead and if clears the error then it was the printhead. Like you, I had a similar error only to find out that I did blow a hole in the thin plastic reservoir I think there is something wrong with people that own these machines. We spend way to much time rigging them. I was just pissed at HP for their proprietary ink policy. They were sued and had to allow the firmware to accept remanufactured 3rd party cartridges. CArtridges are very pricy And if you have a bunch of left over ink you want to keep the machines working May the force be with you!!!

[@RayZaplatar]

Sometimes you have to put in an original working cartridge to clear the message. Sometimes after you clean it there may be a small tear in the plastic and it's damaged. Sometimes you have to clear the cmos or reinstall/update firmware. Older firmware doesn't allow 3rd party cartridges. Newer firmware removes that exception and you are able to use reman cartridges. Search youtube on how to do that

[@RayZaplatar]

This is where you have to reload the firmware There are some vids on youtube that give detailed info on that. But the easy try is unplug, from the wall, the power cord. Wait some minutes to clear the cmos . Re plug back in and it will reload the files. It may work. Better but harder is to get the latest firmware and reload it on the mother board. You have to follow carefully the instructions . Even after all that the motherboard just has a glitch and it's unsolvable . It won't clear and then you're replacing a motherboard which is to much work. truth be told I found out the hard way. Wasn't an issue till I had a really plugged reservoir and I blew a hole . So that's why I made the 2nd video. Probably should have been the 1st.

[@RayZaplatar]

sometimes the printhead may be damaged. Sometimes you have to clear the cmos ie firm ware . Sometimes you have to install a known working cartridge to clear the error then reinstall the other cartridge. Use the old known good cartridge to clear the error. There is a good video on how to reload the firmware. You can order a printhead that comes with a guarantee to work. Install it in your machine and if it works then your old printhead is bad. I look on Craigslist for old 8600 printers. Usually sell working for $35.-$60. Used printhead on ebay about $85.00

[@IsaacOLEG]

@@RayZaplatar Hello, great explanations, we can find a support to plug the 4 contacts of the chip of the cartridge ? I suppose I can read the memory with a logical analyser tool, but enter new data ? (flash the chipset ? ) any idea wher this can be explained ? Thanks - printer software versions? Why not but it is an old model I have 7520e despite that it seem to be updated. ON the print head, are those rubber washers around the entry tube of the ink responsible for the depressions (as the film you show in the video ? )

[@g.m.m.9852]

hi, have you cleaned a hp t250 designjet print head, is it the same method?

[@coldcynic2213]

Hi Ray, have you ever tried next care waterproof bandaids? They are clear and very adhesive, but whatever they are made of is strong and elastic!

[@RayZaplatar]

maybe a good option. It's good to leave it in the comments so someone may give it a try Thx

[@edwardsager7605]

What size of tubing did you use?

[@carlmabiog]

Sir, any alternative plastic to put on the broken plastic of the reservoir? And what kind of glue is needed?. Thanks

[@jamiejusthappenedtobehere2434]

He provides suggestions at 4:00min.

[@clorox8788]

Thank you for the video. Is this also a fix for printhead missing or incorrectly installed problem?

[@clorox8788]

My empty inks were sitting in the printer for a while and now im getting the "printhead missing or incorrectly installed" error message so i wonder if its bc they are clogged? Thank you

[@RayZaplatar]

@@clorox8788 sometimes the board develops a fault and it almost doesn't matter what you do. Try and reset the chips by unplugging from wall and let board discharge . When reconnected it may remove the fault. It's tricky as when I've encountered that problem it's almost a hardware issue in the software and difficult to clear. Another option is to look up how to reset the cmos (the chip) that controls the board by downloading an update for the HP printer. Look up youtube vids on how to do that. It can be frustrating. I've done all of that and still had the error. Another option is to replace the entire printhead with a new/refurbished and see if that works. That has been successful for me but a new printhead can cost $50-80.00 and if it doesn't work ouch! good luck

[@RayZaplatar]

Note HP no longer supports these old printers so updates don't exist. If using Windows windows has a default software that runs the HP freom your printer try and see if you can reset it from the software. It is low probability it will work as it's windows trying to correct a HP problem. The software just isn''t were robust. Do look at getting and reinstalling the firmware for the printer. That's been a solid option. Ideal if you can test a new working printhead to see if it corrects the problem

[@clorox8788]

@@RayZaplatar Thank you so much! So far ive tried system reset, firmware update, followed the solution HP suggested 3 times. None of them worked. I'm gonna try to reset the chip like you mentioned and if that doesnt work i'll accept the fact that its now a scanner only lol sad

[@lorismitliff5538]

Hi Ray: I appreciate your ingenuity using a waterpik! But instead of using your mouth to siphon the water out of reservoirs, wouldnt using a syringe work better to suck out the water?

[@RayZaplatar]

It has to be a pretty large capacity syringe . I do suggest a longer tube to avoid ingesting ink. I used the short one bc I had it .

[@pamelaeells9477]

Hi Ray, It's been a year since the last comment, so I'm not sure you are following this anymore. I had some horizontal streaks with my 8600 pro, in the magenta ink only. The horizontal streaks were white, so I'm assuming it was due to an absence of red in in those areas. The magenta color was also pretty light colored. I followed your directions from Part 1, and did notice that no ink was going through the printhead, as displayed in your video. I thought that was odd, because I was getting magenta ink being printed, though not perfect. When re-installed, I keep getting printer to align the printheads, and when trying to align them I am unsuccessful. When I print anyway, I get no red ink at all, but instead yellow ink printed instead! Any ideas?

[@RayZaplatar]

The print head has a bunch of very fine holes on the bottom of the printhead for each color. If only a few of the jets for that particular color are plugged then you'll get the streaks. As the video shows the water coming out should be a uniform stream through all the jets on that particular color. They are in the same row. The other color coming through ? Is it possible that when you replaced the ink cartridges you switched colors around by accident? Each color has a separate reservoir so it's not possible that another color will print Unless colors were switched or the reservoirs' are open to another color. Which typically the printer will be leaking and it won't be able to pull a vacuum to pull ait out of the system. Notice when you change cartridges the startup of the printer goes through a cycle of sucking out ink to prime the cartridges' and pulling out the air Make sure that all cartridges' are properly seated and printhead is correctly installed. Sometimes the circuit board issues an error and it gets locked into that error loop. At that point you have to reinstall the firmware . Even that may not work but is worth the effort. There is a pretty good video on install firmware on the HP 8600's

[@ES-yi8vv]

I saw a guy on youtube who uses the vacuseal bags as a new membrane to cover the compartments. However, I have not found an epoxy that will hold the film to the printhead plastic securely and I get a leak out the side of the repair. I would like to try a hard plastic but Ray says it needs to be flexible to work.

[@RayZaplatar]

try using the adhesives mentioned in my 2 videos. They are strong, flexible but it has to be a perfect seal/vacuum . So that'll be tricky Good luck!

[@dinhbui3675]

Hi ray, mine has the plastic completely blown up, how i can repair it ? With what kind of plastic ? Thanks in advance

[@RayZaplatar]

it's probably time to replace it. Even on a small repair the print head doesn't quite work 100% like before. Doesn't hurt to try, clean the surface well and see if gluing the piece back works Post the results here Good luck

[@thepalm1687]

Is scotch tape or something stronger like clear packing tape not workable for the hole in the thin plastic? I mean it even looks like a piece of tape just laid across all them. Thanks for the videos.

[@RayZaplatar]

Give it a try and post your results. The original plastic is pretty robust and I'd suspect designed with a certain amount of flexibility to create a vacuum or back pressure to work correctly .But worth a try

[@Waggywalkers1]

Did you use a tapping material to replace to repair the hole? how did it go? Lets us know please

[@RayZaplatar]

@@Waggywalkers1 You have to look at both vids on this subject. The 2nd vid goes into a fair amount of detail on the 3 options I've used

[@RayZaplatar]

I think the OEM tape is of a certain flexibility designed to create a vacuum /back pressure when you install a new cartridge the printer goes through a cycle where it sucks out (primes) the new cartridge so it'll print correctly . If you screw with that flexibility it won't pull that vacuum correctly . Then you get poor print quality. That's why they use a flexible plastic instead of a solid plastic You can try the tape and post your results here

[@bzzazab]

What type of screw are you using Ray to remove the larger screws from the plate? It is not a typical phillips screw driver. Thank you

[@RayZaplatar]

It's a small Torx screw .

[@bzzazab]

@@RayZaplatar Thank you, I had gotten everything apart except for the being able to get the larger screws removed from the plate

[@timwalker7349]

This would have been great info in part one before i blew out the seals doing what you said in the first video

[@RayZaplatar]

yes agreed. That's why I made part 2. Actually I didn't have problems till I tried cleaning a few very dried in printheads and I blew them. That's when I figured out to much pressure is not good. It is a bit of a moving target and evolving

[@timwalker7349]

@@RayZaplatar No worries just wish this was part 1 not part 2, if you follow part one and break the head (ask me how i know) then part 2 is useless. This video should be part 1 and the other should be part 2

[@bluev3nom]

I use to work for HP for many years. Specifically the Printers. Be careful with using the machine. Any pressure on it, you are widening the holes, and will eventually cause them to fully leak. You can usually get away with doing things like this a couple times. Anything over that, your diameters of those thousands of laser holes will widen. Neverthless, good idea.

[@J_Dubbs_614]

what if I totally busted the seal :( should I just sell the printer for parts, or is replacing the printhead doable?

[@liquidsnake123]

Hey there I have this same printer "HP 8600 Officejet pro plus" and I've been noticing leaks on the bottom.Blobs of ink on the bottom.It prints fine but I rarely use it. When I do it periodically gives me a message that the color cartridges are depleted even though i re-filled them the last time. This doesn't seem normal as I rarely get the print numbers every time I refill it and it's always the yellow or blue that always depletes . I heard that if left unused the ink dries up inside but this is probably being caused by something else. When I got this printer it had no ink cartridges so I bought a set then I learned the print head was clogged up. I bought a cleaning kit and carefully cleaned the print head making sure not to damage the bladder inside as the instructions advised. It prints fine it's just weird that the color cartridges deplete too fast. I'm not getting the print numbers promised with each refill. In the little yellow chamber there seems to be a compromise. This was there before I cleaned the print head.Looks like some blue ink got inside and there is some green color.This is in the bottom of the clear yellow chamber. But my prints come out fine.... I'm probably going to have to open up the print head and see what the problems is because I don't think leaking ink in the bottom is normal. I stumbled onto your video because I was afraid I would have to buy a new printer head and the plastic film on the top of the chambers seems to be an intentional flaw.

[@RayZaplatar]

More likely it's the small rubber grommet that you use when you refill each cartridge. Repeated refilling will stretch it out and it won't seal properly. The way to test that is to take out the suspected cartridge turn it upside down so the rubber fill grommet is facing down. If it leaks that may be the issue. You can get replacement grommets or salvage them from a newer non working cartridge. It sounds like the plastic has developed a hole somewhere. take the print head apart and examine all the flex plastic reservoir . You can tell because you'll see visible ink on top of the plastic. Don't just look at the different color reservoir but there is a 2nd long narrow piece The last possibility is the small cone that the cartridges press into may have a crack . That happened to me. That is a tough fix. I did superglue mine but eventually failed. I'll try and describe that part. You have the main body of ther print head. There are 4 long springs. Each for the different colors. Remove the spring and you'll see a Male thin cone piece that the cartridge presses into . It's cone shaped to create a seal on the rubber grommet Good luck

[@ShabilChanel]

Can i use vinyl sticker for substitution this plastic?

[@RayZaplatar]

I'm sure the original plastic is an engineering item. Requiring a certain flexibility to work correctly

[@coffeeattack]

I have a brand new printhead but the printer doesn't accept it. Is there a trick?

[@RayZaplatar]

Sometimes you have to reinstall or acquire the latest firmware for the printer. There are videos on youtube on how to do that. Sometimes uninstall and reinstall the software. If using windows 10 the HP software won't work . YOu can only use the resident Windows application. HP does have a troubleshooter if that software is compatable. Sometimes there may be a defect with the new printhead. If it's brand new it may not be . If it's a new used could be a problem. I found it difficult to resolve HP software reading hardware issues. I can be the HP mother board. You could test the new printhead on another machine then you'll know. Since the printhead is really the cost of the machine get your money back Sorry the answer isn't real conclusive but it's difficult to resolve if it isn't an easy fix. Best is just to unplug , let unit discharge (remove electric cord) then reconnect after 30 minutes to clear the cmos and have it reload itself

[@sallywall4385]

I followed your instructions, however, when I reinstalled the printhead it said the cartridges appeared to be damaged. I changed them 3 times and it still says this. Do you have any idea what I did wrong?

[@RayZaplatar]

Sometimes it doesn't like it and goes into a default. Could be a small tear . It happened to me recently and I ended up having to get a new/used printhead. Sometimes the firmware needs to be updated or cleared. Unplug printer for a day. Reconnect and see if it resets. There is a video on how to reinstall/write over the firmware. Search on KZbin for that video. I don't think you did anything wrong it's just that HP is not very nice to it's users and the printers are designed to mke you buy their ink and products. This technique seems to work best where the cartridges are fairly easy to clean. The more you fiddle with a difficult cartridge the more chance of failure. I do search craigslist or ebay for used printheads. Sometimes you can get a whole printer for $20-40. (not including Ship) I've also posted on Nextdoor if someone has an old HP 8600 or 8610 Good luck

[@RayZaplatar]

possible the actual printhead not the cartridges is at fault. Had this happen to me also then discovered a small hole in the film of the printhead. The more difficult to clean the printhead the greater the possibility of damage to the printhead. Look at my previous response for my best recommendation. You may need a new printhead. Keep the cartridges .

[@jackdraper2849]

Great video. I'm new to trying to clean a printhead.-- I wasn't even familiar with what a waterpik was. Can you tell if there is a good one that is not expensive ? ( waterpik that is) -- Is there a particular size or diameter for the tube you are using ? Again thanks for the video.

[@RayZaplatar]

I used it because I already had one. Ebay may be a good option to get a cheap used one. You can use a large syringe but apply a soft pressure . The waterpix is good because it's a steady stream and not a lot of pressure. Note it won't clear out heavily dried ink. Best if the cartridge hasn't sat out dry for a long time. Sometimes you can't save it but at $80.00 for a replacement it's worth a try

[@jackdraper2849]

@@RayZaplatar Since i didn’t have the waterpik - I did get a syringe. - And I had pretty good luck for a couple of the nozzles. HOWEVER, on the Cyan nozzle, as I was shooting water through it, I heard a “POP”. - I guess there was just too much pressure on that plastic. Then ink was coming out. I had a hole. -I had my finger over that plastic to try and prevent that from happening as you had showed in your video. But the pressure was just too much. -- I’m going to Walmart today to get some of that Elmer’s Rubber Cement to hopefully patch the hole. Do you have any suggestions regarding that. ? -- Should I wait 24 hours for it to cure before I try shooting water through it again ?

[@RayZaplatar]

@@jackdraper2849 The tendency is to use more pressure thinking it will dislodge it but it blows a hole in the plastic film. It's a bit tricky to get it right. Make sure you watch both vids. IN Vid 2 I have a solvent I use to presoak the ink to soften it then run water through it. It doesn't work 100% as it's real difficult if the ink has been dried for a long time. I do suspect that there is a better solvent as the remanufacture guys have to use something pretty reliable. If you find the perfect solvent report back Good luck

[@jackdraper2849]

@@RayZaplatar Hi Ray- I called the Elmers folks and they told me their Craft Bond Rubber Cement worked best with water so I got some of that. -I found the Orange Peel Solvent you use on Ebay. But it was $181.00 for a gallon of that. So I did not get that. --I've tried WD40 - Isopryl Alcohol and Lighter Fluid and still can't get the Cyan un-clogged. --It's so clogged that the Rubber Cement can't even take the pressure. - So my next question is - If I buy a new printhead on Ebay -- Do I have get Set-up ink Cartridges to prime the new head ? The seller's on Ebay make it sound like I do. -- When you finish cleaning out a head -- do you go through a special priming procedure in order for the cleaned head to work ? -- If you do -- that might make a good video as well.-- I'm feeling like I should throw in the towel.

[@jackdraper2849]

I guess I wrote too much and youtube crossed it out ?

[@ShabilChanel]

Where is part 3?

[@dennisreid2816]

Ray, I lost two of the small springs on the HP 8600. Any chance you have a couple of extra ones? TY

[@RayZaplatar]

do you mean the springs that the cartridges press against when installed? They're about 1" long. I do have some of those

[@thepackage8523]

I had a clogged print head about two years and the video got me through that. (And yes, I blew a reservoir.) Now I've gotten a 'Print head failure' issue, + multiple other messages about one cartridge position, the cyan, causing an 'ink system or printer failure'. I have taken the entire print head apart. I have found that I am missing one of the eight extremely small springs between the green circuit board and the back of the print head where they contact each other - and it is one of the two for cyan. I've been trying to find a source to purchase the springs - they are probably worth about $.05 in reality. I found one source where I could purchase them (8 for $7.99), which is in China, will take a good amount of time to get here, and I am not inclined to buy from China at the present time and climate. Any resource that you can recommend? I can buy a 'dead' print head for parts for around $30.00, to get one darn spring. Is that my only alternative? This is a HP Officejet Pro 8600. Appreciate any advice. Thanks, Sue

[@RayZaplatar]

That can happen. Had that happen to me also . You can try and reload the firm ware for the printer and see if that clears it. Sometimes the printhead or board just goes into a fault mode that can't be cleared except by getting a new printhead . It could be damage to the printhead. 1x it was damage to the color reservoir

[@thepackage8523]

@@RayZaplatar This is positively due to the one missing spring (of eight) between the circuit board on the back of the print head and the ink cartridges, specifically one of the two for cyan, which is missing. As I wrote previously, I had a clogged print head a couple of years ago. I successfully cleaned, unclogged it, and yes, blew one of the seals in the process. Repairing that was also a success and the printer has been running fine for the last two years. I've become pretty intimate with/knowledgeable of the 8600's internal parts. I've pretty much disassembled the entire print head and I know that it is the absence of that one spring. I don't think most DIY'ers that are cleaning and unclogging remove the circuit boards, and access the springs. I believe I only have two options: Buy the set of 8 springs from China, which I don't want to do, or buy a dead print head ($20+) and utilize a spring from there. I am hoping that you may have suggestions on sources for the springs - either to purchase within the U.S. of A., or dead print head sources. I'm thinking maybe some very small spray bottle (like perfume) may have a similar spring size. I haven't tried any hardware stores, but the myriad of printer repair places I have contacted were useless when it comes to that small of a part. We have 'dumps' that you can take old electronics to, but I don't relish the thought of that type of salvage mission either. Please let me know if you come up with any other ideas, and please do so keeping in mind that I 100% believe I have isolated the problem and solution: I am just short one spring (which sounds like an analogy for a mental disorder.) Then again, putting this much effort into finding a two cent spring may qualify me. It is the journey.....which I think you may understand. Sue

[@501Bravo]

@@thepackage8523 Sue, check out this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJ2uqHqMppmAiac The guy uses aluminum foil to short the contacts. He puts on the screen several times that doing this will burn up the print head - and it will, IF the cartridge runs out of ink. But, this may give you a work-around to have a functioning printer until you can find replacement springs.

[@shaho3125]

How did you repair the blown reservoir??

[@doanthinhunguyen]

What type of screwdriver do i need to open the printhead?

[@RayZaplatar]

it's the torx type. Forget the size but small diameter

[@amorrobel]

Thank you for the video. Can you please discuss the board while cleaning with water toothpick. Did you remove it? If so how? Or are you also wetting the board?

[@RayZaplatar]

The board doesn't suffer as long as it's well dried before reinstall and current flows through it. No way to remove without destroying the print head. So it's a calculated risk

[@richardcoughlin8931]

I committed the mortal sin of continuing to print after I received low ink messages. My printer showed that there was still more than 10% left in the black cartridge and 50% in the color ones. I assumed that the low ink was just a courtesy message, like the low gas notice on my car. Little did I know that continuing to print would completely disable the printhead. Now I have the missing or damaged printhead message even after I installed a new black cartridge. I am really angry. HP is just a terrible company. Instead of low ink the printer should have messaged “WARNING!! Replace cartridge immediately.”

[@RayZaplatar]

@@richardcoughlin8931 HP did a lot of dirty tricks with the software. Remember ink is more valuable than Gold. They had a class action law suit that forced HP to allow their printers to be able to use reman cartridges or even to be able to refill. You might try and reload the software for the chip set on the board. Think there are some KZbin vids on how to do that. Try unplugging printer from wall , letting it discharge maybe 1-2 days. Then plug back in. It may reset the chip set and clear that message. Sometimes the board is locked into a default and nothing will clear it. Unless you send it to HP for a fix but that's cost prohibited. I got mad also and is why I'm happy to help other owners of this equipment.

[@RayZaplatar]

BOard does get a bit wet. Just don't plug it in till completely dry. Think one of the 2 vids goes into that detail on how to remove the board Godspeed

[@Ttunez83]

Is there any way to repair the the clear seal?

[@RayZaplatar]

Yes , I go into a fair amount of detail on what to use and how. Look at the vid also part 1. good luck

[@robertgill1849]

Have you ever tried using a thin but rigid plastic sheet in place of the flimsy film. I doubt if it is so fragile in order to create a vacuum. I suspect it is an example of built in obsolesce. I have thought about this and wondered if you attempted the conversion? I think you must remove the film and use a very strong plastic adhesive to successfully experiment with this modification. Also you might have to rshave some of the assembly covering the reservoirs.

[@RayZaplatar]

Not 100% sure but I think it's flexible because it needs the plex to help it pull a vacuum. Much like a lung. IT would have been easier to manufacture with a rigid piece of plastic. Don't think they expected consumers to self repair

[@hasanalamin6963]

What is the name of the plastic adhesive that goes over the ink nozzles, how do I search for it to buy? I searched for it a lot and couldn't find it.

[@kathleenalbert4875]

Hi Ray. I watched both videos. Would you consider trying to fix my printhead for me? Because the replacement print heads are very costly, I would pay you to do it. I had just purchased new cartridges and installed them and of course ran into a problem with the magenta producing lined areas. I also did the hp recommended cleanings and still had the problem. What upsets me is that even if you replace the printer with a new model, they don’t use the same cartridges. Very frustrating. Thank you in advance for a reply. Kathy A

[@RayZaplatar]

It's unpredictable to fix. I'd hate to get it , work on it and not have it work properly. I suggest go to Ebay and they sell for about $80.00. Some guarantee their heads. Others sell non reconditioned for 50.00. You can always send it back if it doesn't work. I know the ink costs almost the print head. I have also found on Craigs list people selling this printer for $25.00 when it has some other non print head issue

[@kathleenalbert4875]

Ray Zaplatar, Thank you for relying. I have ordered the solution kit to try to clear that print head. I will let you know what happens.

[@RayZaplatar]

The industry is set up to make money on ink not the actual printer. So they do it intentionally . Inc is more valuable than gold! I tried a similar solution and once the ink is dried it's really difficult if not impossible to get it cleared. The 2nd video goes into a better cleaning option. read some of the comments and 1 reviewer lists some other clean methods. I think it requires some advanced equipment. I'd soak it in that Orange Cleaner , Place in a baggie for a few days then try and clean it. The HP clean feature just wastes ink. SOmetimes for whatever reason you just can't clear the jets.

[@luqmannulhakim7587]

My hp 952 printhead has problem, but i dont know how to fix it. So i installed ciss for my printer, and it's okay at first. But suddenly the color result is not match with the color i want, i have clean it but it keep happening. And then i clean with cleaning solution, it is work. But it happen again. When i pay attention to the printhead, clearly the color is mixed inside the printhead, i clean it again with cleaning solution but it won't work. What should i do to fix this? Please tell me, i'm desperate to find the solution 😢

[@RayZaplatar]

It sort of sounds like the wrong color cartridge was installed. Assuming that's not the issue , sometimes a little ink from a different reservoir migrates over into a different color cartridge . I've had trouble when I've sprayed water directly on the surface of the inkjet printhead and the force of the water pushes a different color into the wrong cartridge and contaminates it. If you clean the cartridge, as is show in my video ,you will fill the cartridge with water and somehow the water has to get blown out of the reservoir. You can suck it out with mouth and vinyl hose. Then refill with ink. But I'd run enough water through the the problem color till it comes out clear, suck the water out then refill Good luck and be careful to put the 4 cartridges in the proper sequence.

[@luqmannulhakim7587]

@@RayZaplatar okay, good advice. Maybe I'm not clean it enough, or maybe it still wet inside because they water. Thanks a lot

[@zsoltibitter8761]

I have bought another printer for cheap because it had the same printhead as my printer. But it was not used i think more than a year and the ink has totally clogged the nozzles. When i tried to clean it only the magenta passes a little bit of solution through. 99% of the printhead is clogged with dried ink. I have tried to submerge the bottom of printhead into hot water, then carefully inject distilled water with alcohol into it at all color locations but unfotunately the nozzles are completely blocked, i cant even inject the solution because of the air inside which is trapped isnide. I am afraid of pushing the syringe harder because i can tear the foil. Do you have any solution for this special case how to clean completely dried up ink from the nozzles? Thank you

[@RayZaplatar]

It's really difficult to clean when they're really clogged. You are correct not to apply to much pressure as it will blow a hole in the thin membrane and that's another problem . As if you patch the hole it never really works as well I experimented with about 10 different solvents. Everything alcohol, acetone, lacquer, acrylic enamel reducer, bleach, ammonia , etc . I settled on Orange cleaner. It's from oranges and if you soak a paper towel in the cleaner then affix it to the bottom of the jets and place in a plastic bag. Leave it like that for a week. Then blow it. It may work but not all the jets may not be clear. Watch the part 2 video or maybe it's part 1 and it shows that technique. There are folks on ebay that sell refurbished 8600 printheads about $90. so they are using something . The special solution to clean printheads doesn't work

[@zsoltibitter8761]

@@RayZaplatar yeah, it has alredy damaged. I tried to push the syringe very gently but it has cracked at a location because of the pressure. And the water only gets through magenta and at that single location only. It is completely clogged. Neither submerging into really hot water did not help :/ trash...

[@zsoltibitter8761]

@@RayZaplatar by the way could you explain whats the purpose of that thon foil? I cant see any logic in it. It could be completely hard plastic without possibility of tearing. So it is a technique so it can damage easier or some kind of higher knowledge. You say if you patch the hole its not working as good anymore? Why? Why is better if its more flexible original foil than repaired?

[@RayZaplatar]

@@zsoltibitter8761 I'm not a HP engineer but best guess is , It's flexible for a reason. When you install a new cartridge the printer goes through a setup process where it pulls air and ink out of the system. I assume that the flexible material allows the system to bleed the air. Kind of like your lungs are flexible, more efficient. If you ever take this printer apart you will find it uses a pump and a waste ink reservoir that collects the ink. maybe someone out there is a true HP engineer and they can give us a more technical description. I assume this, based on typical pump performance. When you patch a hole in that thin plastic it's less flexible and doesn't preform as well. It's funny that there is a group of us out there that are determined to keep these printers going. I have 2, 8600's plus a lot of cartridges that I want to use. Since ink is more expensive than gold,by weight , there is an economical reason also. Plus we're sticking it in the ear of HP for creating products that are designed to force us to buy new printers. Thats pbly the best reason haha.

[@RayZaplatar]

@@zsoltibitter8761 You can ck craigs list to see if someone locally is selling a used HP buy it only for the printhead but confirm that the jets are clean. Refurbished printheads sell for $50.00- $100.00 on ebay . Those are guaranteed to work . If not you can send them back. A full machine is to expensive to ship.

[@bru1015]

I have a 8600 and the print head is different than yours☹️

[@mr.bright684]

Don't push water hard inside I have do that and later I have an inkt system error and later Had to order a new printhead

[@RayZaplatar]

correct that's why use thumb to support thin plastic membrane . Sometimes it's a fault in the board that you have to reinstall the firm ware although I've not been successful in clearing the error . No guarantee you do your best

[@lindao7887]

It's only my yellow, first I thought it was out of yellow ink, but no, new cartridge didn't work either. 😮‍💨

[@RayZaplatar]

Not unusual that 1 color jets are plugged. Some colors are more prone to drying in the printhead. Connect your water hose to that color and see if it sprays out the bottom of the print head. Look at my video as I go from 1 color to the next, you can see the row of that corresponding color. If it ain't coming out the jets then that color is plugged. Sometimes you can't clear it. You can get a new printhead , but that's pricy or just use the printer without that color.

[@wevans3239]

occluded, not included

[@billwade6425]

Sorry, you are way above me. No technical skills. I am bill's wife not bill.

[@VAClemor]

Duct tape ?

[@bru1015]

Shouldn’t taking off the cover be in the first video. 🥴

[@mg8718]

The printhead is actually damaged. You need to replace the printhead with a new one. Cleaning is not going to last. It will clog again. Your probly also using cheap non HP brand ink. (Not reccomended by HP).