Epson 740 all lights flashing

[BrianAlex]

Epson Stylus 740, a few years old.Was having trouble with jets
clogging.I was using the original cartridges,refilled by syringe.
Printer otherwise in excellent condition,rarely used.
Was on about the 6th cleaning cycle and ALL lights started blinking
(on/off,paper,black,color inks).
Epson support no help "take it in for repair".
I found a guy who says that means the waste ink pads are full and that
I need new ones.Also I need to access "service mode" and re-set the
counters,but he doesn't remember how to do this,and Epson only tells
repair people how to do this.
Am I SOL? I don't give up easily on things and have it apart on my
living room floor.I bought a new Canon AIO and picture quality on the
old Epson is WAY better even with off-brand ink.
I realize this is a long shot,but like I said,I don't quit easily.
Much thanks-Brian

Oh,basic question is; Where can I get waste-ink pads? THX