Hi @Jeff2025,
Thanks for the detailed follow-up, you're really putting in the work, and I appreciate your thorough approach!
You're absolutely right, if all three color cartridges are printing cleanly, it does suggest the printhead isn't completely clogged. However, it’s very possible that the black ink nozzle portion of the printhead is still partially blocked, and that’s separate from the color channels.
Here are some advanced steps you can try
Manual Soaking of the Printhead (for stubborn black nozzle clogs)
Since onboard cleaning didn't help, a gentle manual soak might:
Remove the printhead (if possible) – Make sure the printer is powered off and cartridges are removed.
Take a shallow dish with warm (not hot!) distilled water, just enough to submerge the nozzles, not the entire head.
Let it soak for about 10–15 minutes, occasionally gently swishing the water.
Remove and gently blot the printhead (no rubbing!) with a lint-free cloth or coffee filter.
Reinstall the head and cartridges, run a single level-1 cleaning cycle.
Cleaning Station Concerns
Yes, you’re spot-on, the cleaning station does contain a spongy absorber pad that collects excess ink. If it's missing or has been pushed out, the printer may fail to properly "prime" the black ink line.
If you suspect the pad is missing or damaged, it might explain why the black ink isn’t being pulled through effectively, even after cleaning.
Let me know after the firmware update too, some 8600 firmware versions do have improved printhead calibration logic.
If Nothing Works...
Unfortunately, if the black nozzle still shows horizontal lines or missing segments after all this, it might be:
Clogged beyond recovery, or
The black channel in the printhead is damaged
In that case, replacing the printhead might be the best next step.
You're doing all the right things, Jeff. Let me know how it goes after the firmware update or the soak method, I’m right here if you need more help!
I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨
Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀
Best regards,