[monubigina]

I did all of my homework, and was thoroughly sold on the fact that I would be getting an Epson Stylus Color 3000. Unfortunately I never looked at the DATES of the posts recommending this printer. I bought a used one, didn't test it before I got out the door, Got home realized my OS wouldn't support the driver software, after an agonizing stint installing XP on a new machine, loading drivers etc... it STILL won't talk to the printer. Not only that but the printer will not produce any ink in a test print - (I assume b/c of clogged heads as the exp. date ont he ink cartridges in the printer was 2004) I downloaded the service manual but even with an engineering degree I cannot decipher exactly how to remove the print heads, if I can remove them with ink cartridges in place, if I should remove the old cartridges and just leave the black, if it would still work if I did any of this, etc.... etc... etc.... Does anyone have any advice including what a modern version of this printer is??? Of course I would like to get what I have working and go from there, but I have been fighting with at least one aspect of this tangled mess for almost a year to discover the printer is gooked up (assuming this).. I tried to contact people on other forums about their experience fixing their ESC 3000 but again - those posts are almost 3-5 years old, and I am getting no replies... HALP?!?!

 

[shonroti]

Are you using this printer for sublimation? Or are you using the OEM inks?

 

[PositiveDave]

3000 is a really good printer, if a bit slow.
Printer heads are still available, I have one in stock!
Dead easy to work on and you can put any type of ink through it.
All recent OS's should support it.
You might have a clogged head, especially if it hasn't been used but that isn't the printer's fault.

 

[TLH41]

Hmm, at this point, and with your limited experience, I would recommend you find an Epson repair facility near you and take it in for a tune-up. I have a local shop here that will work magic on a 3000, or you can buy a refurbed unit for $300. These are great, but old, printers. Parts are still available.

I have been using mine for years now and while I would like a new printer, I prefer to stick with the four color and wide format option. If that suits your needs, get the old girl fixed up and you will not have too much trouble maintaining it. If a newer model is better for you, re-sell the 3000 and try perhaps a WorkForce 1100, or if you want more colors, the Epson 3880 or 4880. (Big price difference between those three.)

I can send you some cleaning info if you PM me your email address, but truly, if you have not already worked on printers I don't suggest you try unless you feel you are up to the task. It's not that hard, but it can be overwhelming for the uninitiated and you can break stuff if you don't remove things the right way.

For drivers, you can try Gutenprint.

What type of printing are you going to do?

~Tamara

 

[LEO]

I LOVE my Epson 3000's !
I use one for dye sub transfers...and have another stockpiled in reserve.
When one gives up the ghost I send it to:

Levi Systems Inc
2510 Electronic Lane
Dallas, TX 75220
==============
If they can fix.. they call and tell you how much. if they cannot fix... there is no charge.
have been using them since Day #1- YEARS...

ph # (214) 350-4961
==============
The 3000 is a workhorse and with the clear funnel carts - it just keep ticking !

LEO