OfficeJet G85 will not print in Black

[MtnHiker]

I have an OfficeJet G85 printer with new colour and black cartridges. The printer only prints or copies if the colour setting is chosen.   The screen on the printer continues to show a request to "align the print cartridges" . A page prints with four blue checkmarks and a two inch dark blue rectangular bar.  The message continues to show on the screen.

[Bob_Headrick · Accepted solution]

It sounds like you have a defective black cartridge.  I would suggest removing the black HP 45 cartridge and gently blotting the printhead on a damp tissue.  Do you get a strong black blot of ink?  If not make sure the protective tape has been removed from the nozzles.

If the nozzle tape has been properly removed but there is no strong blot of black ink it may help to soak the printhead as follows:  get a coffee cup and put about 1" of very hot (but not boiling) water in it.  Put the HP 45 cartridge with the printhead facing down in the water and let it soak for about ten minutes.  Remove the cartridge and dry the electrical contacts with a lint-free wipe.  A clean coffee filter works well for this.  If the cartridge will still not provide a strong blot on a damp tissue you will need a replacement.

[MtnHiker]

Thanks Bob,  Solution was simpler than expected.  This was a friend's printer.  They installed the cartridges but appears they failed to remove the tape on the printhead.  I did look at the cartridge and didn't notice any tape but maybe the tab came off but not the tape.  Who knows; I had to leave so my friend did they check after your post.  Tape was removed, black printing works and the align cartridge message has gone.  Many thanks for your help.