After cleaning the rod with alcohol, someone suggested lubricating the rod. Is that something that is safe to do or not? If so, how often? Thank you, Susan Hays > This is a problem with all hp ink jets I have worked on a little alcohol on a rag and wipe the rod the ink carriage slids on. The machine sounds like it is tearing up people will go buy a new printer when its not needed. You will have to keep it clean but alcohol is cheaper then a new printer. Brady> Do you want to signoff PCBUILD or just change to Digest mode - visit our web site: http://freepctech.com/pcbuild.shtml