Prints look smeared

[fast-lane-graphics]

Hi all, I am having a problem with my sp540 prints looking "smeared" They were fine forever, then the problem started when printing banners and heat transfer material, now it prints this way on the vinyl I use everyday. Any input would be greatly appreciated. I did a powerful head cleaning, and also a manual one. Here are a few pics of what I used to get, and what I am getting now.

Thanks
Chad

 

[Gino]

Your eye sensor or strip are dirty or going bad. Clean the strip and see if it helps.

 

[pacmn]

Try adjusting Bi Directional settings

 

[fast-lane-graphics]

Not sure how to clean the strip. I tried printing the BI- Directional test print, and set the setting accordingly and it was actaully worse.

 

[Techman]

Not sure how to clean the strip.

Then you really need to clean it...

 

[fast-lane-graphics]

DING DING DING!!! WE HAVE A WINNA! cleaned the strip and all seems to be well again! thanks for the help, I would be lost without all the great reads on here.

Thanks
Chad