imagePROGRAF PRO-4000S black ink draining fast

[MASC_LSUHS]

One of our PRO-4000S printers has suddenly started draining the MBK ink (cartridge PFI-1700MBK). In the past, one cartridge would last us months. We haven't had any change in volume of work and yet the ink consumption has suddenly gone up for that one ink. 

We installed a new MBK cartridge on 11/17/23 and had to replace it on 12/4/23 -- which was a bit shocking that the cartridge lasted less than a month instead of MONTHS. But then three days later, that new cartridge we installed on 12/4 ran out and had to be replaced on 12/7/23. Any thoughts on what is causing this with no change in print volume?

[KSArt]

Sorry I dont have an answer for you. The ink is draining down into the holding tray under the ink cartridge compartment. I am having the same problem and wondering what you may have found out for a fix. 

[Tscheidt]

Posted a fix below 

[GrassrootsGraph]

I am also having this problem and it just started. The black ran out in less than 2 weeks. I would like to know what a fix might be for this. 

[Tscheidt]

My magenta drained same day as install of a 700 ml tank!

[Tscheidt]

Posted fix below

[drscotti]

We have the same issue after a power outage with our MBK cartridge. Anyone find a solution??

[Arthur]

Hi! Since these threads are inactive we recommend starting a new one so fresh eyes from our community can possibly assist. 

[Tscheidt]

i ended up with ink all the way to the drive gears in my ink tank.  I think I have found the solution but you won't like it.  The tiny diaphram inside the ink tanks for each colour becomes pinched and creates a tiny hole.  You either have to buy a new cartridge holder thing or take it apart and seal the leak.  Guy on yourtube has an amazing prograf leak hunt video

[Tscheidt]

Solved it.  The guy in this video found where the leak comes from and if you do the same break down then find the pin hole in the diaphragm you can plug it with some marine glue applied via toothpick to hole then reverse the process and rebuild.  https://youtu.be/7W4Q5e7Ku18?si=ZUWA_VhJclt0kYPa