I have an addiction. I like electro-mechanical devices. I like figuring out how they work so I can fix them. This is a slow road, but I’m getting there. But I have a dilemma. Most of the time, the problem I find is the belts have turned to glue. Living in Canada, if I want to buy a belt kit, I have to order it from the US. Here’s the problem. The last time I ordered two belt kits at a cost of about $22 US. When I convert that to Canadian, it adds up to about $35 total, and then I got dinged by customs with a duty of $10 and a service fee of about $25. So $70 for just two belt kits! And if I buy the deck for $15, and can’t sell it for more than $50-70, it really isn't worth the effort.Some of the decks I find, I initially buy so I can scavange parts from, but on closer inspection, the only issue is a belt. So I can’t in good conscience take the parts when it is a really simple fix. My solution for the time being is to use rubber bands. I’ve done this before with a vcr, and it lasted a good 2 - 3 years. I wouldn’t use a rubber band for the main belt, but I’m not as concerned about the rewind or fast forward function being a steady speed. As long as it does the job, no worries!
However, if I’m going to then sell it, I will need to let the buyer know that they will need to eventually order a belt kit. I’m thinking I’ll offer to install it free once they receive it.
Do any of you use the rubber band solution? How well has it worked for you?
Here’s a picture of my latest repair, a Technics 630T! I know how much everyone loves pictures!
