Lexmark Cartridge Questions

[Sherwin Dubren]

I have tried to refill my color and black cartridges on my X73 Lexmark.
The black cartridge refilled ok on two refills, but on the third try,
one
of the nozzles was blocked, and it took a lot of effort to free it with
a
mild cleaning solution. The color cartridge is more stubborn. I filled
all three chambers, and it appeared to have the three colors when I
pressed the nozzles against a towel paper. However, it wont print
anything, even with repeated 'clean nozzle' commands. Is it a lost
cause?

Lexmark customer service was less than helpful. Of course I didn't tell
them I was refilling their cartridges. They said these cartridges have
a
two year shelf life and a one year life once you install them. Seems a
bit harsh, and possibly not realistic.

I am considering some of these rebuilt cartridges. Are they any good,
and how does one know if they have done a good job of rebuilding? The
claims are they are cleaned, refilled, pressure tested, etc., but who's
to know. I have seen the prices on the cartridges almost double since I
last bought some two years ago. Is it just Lexmark who has all these
problems, or will I find things just as bad with other companies?

Sherwin D.

 

[davefr]

Lexmark cartridges have integrated resistors. These resistors can
burn up when the cartridge runs dry. (ink is used to cool the
resistors).

Once this happens your cartridge is "toast".

I wouldn't buy a new Lexmark cartridge. Throw away the printer and
look for a new one that's close the free after rebate. OM is selling
new Z65's for $29 AR.