HP 700 Latex printing issues

[BigJimSlade]

We are printing PSV on a HP 700 latex printer. About 2 years old, so out of warranty. The image will print perfect for several feet, then "wig out" and the image gets very mottled. It has been a good machine for a long time, with very few problems. I have shut off, restarted, done a head cleaning, wiped the encoder strip clean, etc. Sometimes, the next day, it will print fine for hours. I've tried changing media, set-ups, resolution, etc. Probably time for an on site technician visit. Any thoughts? Thanks

 

[balstestrat]

Post some pictures. I'm not 100% sure what you mean but I think possibly your optimizer PH is bad.

 

[BigJimSlade]

Should I try just changing the optimizer cartridge? It is hard to see in phone pictures.

 

[balstestrat]

How much use on the printhead? The cartridge is unlikely cuplrit. Rather replace the printhead if you want to try.

 

[BigJimSlade]

It does have that "ink water" imbalance look from my litho days, but it is not constant. Just "happens".

 

[BigJimSlade]

I changed the black/cyan printheads. That did not affect anything; good or bad.

 

[balstestrat]

If it's something it's only the Optimizer printhead.

There is actually a test for it in the printer. Image quality menu, top corner "..." and then "optimizer depletion test" or similar.

 

[BigJimSlade]

Here are some pictures. I will change the OP head and do that depletion test.

 

[balstestrat]

Yeah that's optimizer issue. Just proceed to replace the printhead and you will most likely be back running as usual.

 

[BigJimSlade]

Wow! Thanks so much. I can see why you are called problem solver. It is working fine now. Very grateful for the help.