Kodak ESP 5 runs out of ink after about 40 pages of standard text black & white documents. Also the color ink level is dropping, but no color is being used (the printer is set for black & white only).I took the printer head out and there is ink pooled under it.

As far as the quantity of black & white - to get more out of it - go to start menu.. Click on on settings,, then printers,, Right click on the ESP 5,, click on printing preferences,, then clcik on draft,, then click on (at the top) advanced,, click on black & white.. Then click on apply then ok..
Now - every time you print it will be in this mode.. If you want to print in color - you will have to choose that each time..
For you black & white docs - this will print faster & use allot less ink..
As far as your color issue & puddling - It could be the printer head.. If it is new enough - call Kodak & maybe get a replacement.. If to old - maybe keep the color cartrige out and caped with the plastic caps until you need to print color.. Snap it in & out as needed..
I hope this helped..