HP 6968 will not print black ink

[ArizonaDale]

I changed the black ink cartridge and now it won't print black. I received another black ink cartridge from HP InstantInk and tried it but it still won't print black. The test page only prints color.  I've cleaned the printhead with both the printer menu and damp paper towels. I also tried taking all of the cartridges out and replacing them, in addition to unplugging the printer power cord from the printer and then the wall socket.  At this point I'm out of troubleshooting ideas, so any additional suggestions will be appreciated. Thank you!

[Irfan_06]

Hi @ArizonaDale,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.

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

I see that you are facing an issue with your printer that is not printing in black.

A) Please follow the steps below to perform a power drain.

1) Take out the cartridges

2) Unplug the power cord from the printer & wall.

3) Press and hold the power button down for 15 seconds and release the power button, wait for about 30 seconds.

4) Plug the power cord back into the printer and wall, ensure the printer is plugged into the wall & not into a surge protector.

5) Insert the cartridges back into the printer.

Remove the cartridges > Unplug the power cord > Wait for 30 seconds > Plug the power cord back in > Insert the cartridges

B) Kindly refer to the steps on this link to update the printer firmware and let me know if that resolves the issue.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day

Irwin6

HP Support

[ArizonaDale]

Thank You for the reply received to help me. The problem was actually much simpler than a technical issue. The black nozzle was plugged with dried ink. I used an eye dropper with a 50-50 mix of distilled water and rubbing alcohol to dissolve the dried ink by placing the mixture on top of the printhead nozzle.

[Irfan_06]

Hi @ArizonaDale,

That's great! Happy to hear that the issue has been resolved. I appreciate your efforts in performing the steps to fix it and If you need further assistance feel free to reach out to us.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Take care and have a great day ahead!

Irwin6

HP Support

[SDuhig]

Carried out each stage of reset, current discharge, above carefully.

Did not work for me.

CMY print OK but not a drop of black for either of two cartridges including a fresh one.

HP only in use

Heads clean.

Firmware up to date.

Is there now a solution to this common issue (400 users plus?) please?