Source for discontinued Image Cleaning Kit and other parts

[mckern853]

Part C8554A Image Cleaning Kit is showing discontinued.  This is a consumable part and my CLJ9500mfp will not operate without it.  My reseller has been unable to get the part for several months.  My printer is now showing that the part needs to be replaced, and will not operate.

I removed the toner bottle and emptied it by depressing the spring-loaded button and shaking out the waste toner.  Also removed the long rod-like part that is inserted into the printer.  Then re-inserted the rod and re-installed the bottle.  After re-installing, I can hear the printer start to process a job, but within 1 or 2 seconds, I hear a clunk noise and receive a message to replace the Image Cleaning Kit.  The printer is not recognizing a new image cleaning kit, even after prompting me for "Install new part?" which I answer with "yes".  Technically, the machine is correct.  I did not install a new part;  I removed and reinstalled the old part.

1.  I found a reseller (Calhoun) which stocks the C8554a at three times the HP OEM price, but I am concerned about the availabilty of parts and consumables.  Is there an official HP source for discontinued part c8554a?
2.  Is there a way to trick the printer into recognizing an emptied toner bottle as a replacement for c8554a?

3.  Has HP ended support for the CLJ9500mfp?  If yes, I have a fully functional machine plus $2000 in extra consumables that are rendered useless by a $75 waste disposal part.

Any experience with the CLJ 9500 mfp?  Any insight on keeping it running? 

[strmcsr]

You might be able to still get these through the HP Parts Surfer website:

Select the check box and it will add to cart.  Not sure what the price is or current stock.

HP Parts Surfer