HP Officepro 8600 Printhead

duckboat · ‎01-12-2026

Printing problems - tried many solutions. Nothing. Bought new printhead.

New printhead: alignment page is blank paper. Put old back in & prints OK in B&W, but color screwed.

Returned printhead & ordered new. Same result: blank paper instead of alignment sheet. Return to old printhead - same as above. What gives?

Jerry_57 · ‎01-14-2026

Hi @duckboat,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like you've encountered persistent issues with the printhead on your HP OfficeJet Pro 8600 printer, even after replacing it with a new one. Here are some steps to troubleshoot the problem further:

1. Verify Installation and Setup

Ensure Proper Installation: Double-check that the new printhead is installed correctly. Make sure all cartridges are seated properly, and the latch is fully closed.
Use Setup Cartridges: If available, ensure you're using the setup cartridges that came with the new printhead, as using different cartridges can cause errors or non-standard functioning.

2. Examine the Printhead

Check for Obstructions: Ensure there are no protective tapes or obstructive packaging left on the printhead.
Inspect Contacts: Clean the electrical contacts on the printhead and inside the printer with a lint-free cloth slightly moistened with distilled water. Be careful not to touch the nozzles.

3. Printer Software and Settings

Check Printer Settings: Verify that all printer settings are correct and reset them if necessary.
Firmware Update: Make sure your printer's firmware is up to date. Sometimes, firmware updates address known issues.

4. Use HP Diagnostic Tools

Print Quality Diagnostics: Run a print quality diagnostics report to identify any issues related to installed cartridges or printhead alignment problems.

5. Environment and Usage

Check Paper Type and Quality: Ensure that you are using the correct paper type settings and that your paper is not damp or curled.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!

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HP Support

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duckboat · ‎01-14-2026

Thanks for possible solutions, but I had already tried all of those. (IT Pro) I did have a very good conversation with CoPilot at the HP site. All of the symptoms were laid out and CoPilot indicated the reasons and that my 8600 was at the end of life. Not surprised.

Now if I can just get my 9125e to work - less than a year old.

Jerry_57 · ‎01-15-2026

Hi @duckboat,

Thank you for your response.

The old workhorse has rested; may the new one shine with crisp colors and smooth flow.

Regards
Jerry_57
HP Support