Tom,

Error 1203 is a very interesting error code. Here is what I found out about error 1203

It's mean your cartridges overflow even from brand new cartridges after a several prints or right after you refilled the cartridges. Check to see if ink are smeared on the holder where the contact panel with the cartridge. I have the same problem which I think lexmark have a problem and overlook.

Solution:
I use the klennex with a few drops of water to dampen and clean off those contact on the holder and my printer work again.
The refill ink work very well if you let it sit 24 hrs. Then before you print anything, you should run aligned the cartridges a couple times then run clean cartridges a couple times.
Print the test page to see how it's look and way you go.
Be sure not to leave any debris of klennex on those holder contact panel.

Dell Series 9 ink cartridges have a sensor in them that cannot be reset. Article on refilling Dell ink cartridges

Dell Series 9 ink cartridges can be purchased at Staples, Walmart or Dell's Website.

Or try Cleaning the encoder strip (Loud bang from printer carriage)

Rick

Hi Rick,

Sorry for the delay in responding. I've been on the road and finally connected with my neighbor today.

I cleaned the contact surfaces on the carrier. The Kleenex had a significant amount of black ink on it. Alas, the error remains the same. I have given up and will buy her a new printer to replace this 8 year old one.

Thanks for the input. I was really hoping we had the fix.

Tom