PIXMA MX870 each replacement print head produces a new problem

[WesC]

My MX870 began to show issues printing black ink after sitting for some time. I ran the print head through several cleaning routines, both in and out of the printer. All of the print heads responded quite well (CMYK all printed clean and without problems) but the large black print head was still badly clogged. After nearly 10 attmepts to clean the head I decided to just purchase a new one.

I bought a genuine Canon QY6-0073 print head off of Amazon (legitimate looking packaging and it was sealed it its plastic puch with the orange plastic retainer in place, it was clean.) ...and I installed it. Strangely though, the print head seemed to be defective! I had severe smearing of the small black ink cartridge, banding in the cyan and absolutely no yellow ink printing whatsoever.

I ran internal cleaning cycles and even tried replacing the still half full yellow ink tank with a fresh one, still not a drop of yellow was being printed.

I swapped back in my old print head and CMYK prints perfectly, just the spotty and clogged large black ink at the top as usual.

I have returned the defective print head to the Amazon seller.

My question is.... is it worth trying again with another new print head? Do you think perhaps I was sold a gray market or previously used print head?

If not Amazon, who can I purchase the print head from who is reputable. I'm having trouble locating one besides Amazon.

Thanks!

Wes

[Ramona]

Hi WesC,

We recommend having the unit serviced to determine the exact resolution to the printing issue you are experiencing. We cannot guarantee that replacing the print head in the unit would resolve the issue.  Please call or email us at one of the methods on the Contact Us page to obtain your servicing options.

[TAC362]

Did you ever get a solution to your issue.  I have having pretty much the same issue.

[Danny]

Thanks for joining the conversation, TAC362!  The PIXMA MX870 is an older model which we have retired. While that means that Canon USA no longer offers direct support for it, your friends here in the Canon Community are welcome to offer suggestions!

You can also speak with a Canon Upgrade Program specialist to help you score a modern replacement that would meet your current needs at a discount. You can reach them weekdays and Saturdays at 1-866-443-8002.

Hope this helps!