Epson 9600 - Air in line won't clear :-(

[Justin]

Just swapped to new refil carts in my trusty 9600 printer. Had a few problems getting a clear nozzle check but almost there...apart from the light cyan! Tried all usual cleaning procedures. I have the right side dismantled and have cleaned what I can in there. Just noticed that the ink doesn't appear to be flowing in the cyan tube though. I saw a little go through but then just air.

Could this be a faulty cart? Is there a way to expel this air and draw the ink through? I'd assumed it was a blocked nozzle but maybe not?

[Justin]

Just removed a couple of carts to check and the light cyan has soaked the pad under the cart whereas the others are fairly clean.

[pisquee]

Try priming the carts - if there is air stuck in the exit of the cart, no amount of head cleans will get it flowing properly (in my experience)
Also, check the dampers on the head - do they all look the same, or does the light cyan look dirty/broken/leaky - hard to explain, but you'll know if you see it.

[Justin]

Can't see any issues around the dampers. What would happen if I removed the tube this end and drew the ink through out of interest?

Pretty sure the cart is primed ok but will double check.

[mags1892]

You can remove the line from the top of the damper and draw the ink out and pop it back into your cart waste not want not. It will recede a little when you plug it back in but not much,

[Justin]

I got the ink through in the end but gave other problems, time to give up.

[mags1892]

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Epson-Stylus- ... SwGotWsUBN

long way but if heads ok could be worth it.

[pisquee]

There's a few 7600/9600 models on Ebay at the moment (rare that there isn't) trick is finding a seller who can/will put it on a pallet, then it doesn't really matter where in UK they are.

[Justin]

7600 no good, need 44".

Yes, several around 9600 and 9800 etc. I have 9800 lined up for collection. I wouldn't buy without seeing nozzle check and its amazing how many printers suddenly get blocked heads when you enquire!

[pisquee]

You can remove the line from the top of the damper and draw the ink out and pop it back into your cart waste not want not. It will recede a little when you plug it back in but not much,

What's the easiest/quickest way to be able to get to the dampers to do this? Guides I've so far found online look daunting(!)
Currently got our 9600 with air in the yellow line that I'm struggling to clear (staff let the refill cart run empty)