Printer dropping ink where it should not

[gabagoo]

That title sucks, Not sure how to describe it but lately my printer (mimaki jv3 130spll) is what can only be described as dripping ink at the top of the y axis outside the graphics area. So basically each pass it will have a thin line of black at the top of the vinyl.

I have cleaned the heads and capping station but wonder if it is a damper issue. I also noticed over the last month a black ink build up on the two metal clips that hold the material edges down.

I know it is an old printer but it works and I know how to trouble shoot most printing issues.

 

[letterman7]

Check for fuzz on the underside of the head, especially in any gaps. My Mutoh will do that - there are 2 very small gaps on either side of the head that tend to gather lint for some reason. It acts like a sponge and when it gets saturated, ink starts to drop when the head changes direction. Have to take a business card to clean it out.

 

[gabagoo]

I never did anything except put a roll of cheap vinyl in and now it is printing perfectly.... Yes I know a hair or lint will create havoc, but I cleaned it all yesterday so I know that it is not anything to do with outside interference.. I mean possibly that other roll of vinyl (good calendered general formulations 203) was lifting up on one end from humidity? which is weird because this cheap $99 a roll vinyl usually gives all sorts of head smears but not today and it is pretty humid out.

 

[gabagoo]

Today I went under and checked with a high powered LED light and sure as shlt I find a little piece of scrim thread mixed with lint hiding behind the black head..... sheesh