2000c says a new yellow cartridge all the time

[bronc]

my hp 2000c says that i need a new yellow cartridge ie the automatic print diagnosis page says so. I keep replacing the yellow cartridge but - no difference - after a few prints, i get the same message.

my other! 2000c prints an occasional bold line and the print quality has deteriorated - it stops every so often with all lights flashing. i tried changing the black print head to no avail. this problem is not as urgent since my first printer is in better general condition - except for that problem with the yellow cartridge.

 

[gbaughma]

Can you verify the model again?

I am unaware of a DeskJet 2000c, or a LaserJet 2000c....

Is this something new? Is it laser, or inkjet?

Anyway... my first thought...

If it is an inkjet, the connection where your yellow cartridge plugs in has a bad pin. Might be squished, might have some debris on it.

Try cleaning it with 99% (not 70%) Isopropyl alcohol.

HP used to do it right; the printers USED to have spring-loaded pins when you inserted an ink cartridge. Now, like Lexmark, they just have essentially a plastic "ribbon cable" with exposed bumps on them to make the connection.

One good paper jam, and that can be bent or creased, essentially making the printer useless.



Just my $0.02

"In order to start solving a problem, one must first identify its owner." --Me
--Greg

 

[bronc]

thanks greg - you got me looking down at the terminals and noticed that the "plunger" at the bottom of the yellow cartridge well was floppy. as you suspected, this 2000c (deskjet) DOES have spring retainers. I somehow managed to pull it to bits and found that a spring anchor point had broken off. Drilled a small hole to put the end of the spring in and by the skin of some-thing-or-other and with a pair of long nose pliers that i happened to buy in Brick Lane for £1, it's working. Thanks for the inspiration.

Any ideas on why the other 2000c print the occasional ugly bold line with general print deterioration?

 

[gbaughma]

Usually that is because of a clog in the heads....

You can try cleaning them with 99% isopropyl (not 70%... that's 30% water!)


Just my $0.02

"In order to start solving a problem, one must first identify its owner." --Me
--Greg