EPSON PIGMENT PRINTERS, NOZZLE CLOGGING

I have an Epson 4000 that uses the original Ultrachrome inkset. The problem of nozzle clogging is driving me insane. I waste enormous amounts of time (and $ink) just running clean and test cycles. I have to get rid of it.
Does anyone have experience with both that series of printers and Epson's newer generation (4800, 3800, et.al.) They use a different inkset and supposedly have a coated nozzle that resists clogging. Unless it's substantially improved over the original, I have to look at Canon for a replacement.

thanks,

With the older dye ink printers Epson always suggested a nozzle check once a week just to keep the ink from drying in them. Like you I have horror stories!

I now use an R2880, with the K3 Ultrachrome "Vivid Magenta" inkset, which is not completely pigment based but is actually a mix of both dye and pigment inks. The 2880 nozzles have been coated with teflon and touch wood it seems to have cured the problem. I certainly don't have to run a routine weekly check like I used to, instead all I do is run a quick check before printing at A3+ just to avoid wasting paper.

The 4000 uses pigment, and if I waited a week, it would never run clean!
Thanks for your input, and happy printing!

Lowner wrote in post #9581576
With the older dye ink printers Epson always suggested a nozzle check once a week just to keep the ink from drying in them. Like you I have horror stories!

I now use an R2880, with the K3 Ultrachrome "Vivid Magenta" inkset, which is not completely pigment based but is actually a mix of both dye and pigment inks. The 2880 nozzles have been coated with teflon and touch wood it seems to have cured the problem. I certainly don't have to run a routine weekly check like I used to, instead all I do is run a quick check before printing at A3+ just to avoid wasting paper.

Does the 3880 have these teflon coated nozzels as well?

Poe,

To be honest I've no idea, but as it carries the same product range numbering (2880/3880) I would not be at all surprised.

Photo-i do good in depth reviews of printers. It's where I went to get info on my 2880 before finally buying. It might tell you there. I certainly don't read so many stories of ink clogs on Epson printers as I did once upon a time!

I don't know specifics about nozzle coatings, but my 3800 performs very well. I can leave it off for extended periods and nozzle checks are perfect.

You say you want to get rid of it. Don't know how you feel about refurbs, but FYI:

http://www.epson.com …seBVCookie=yes&​oid=-13270

I've been watching this page for another printer (7880). They put the 3800 / 3880 up about a month ago. They dropped prices 50 (on all 3) a while back and another 50 last week on the 3800. Good price if you're ok with refurbs.