Beocord 2400 Tape Deck - One Channel Dead - Advice

[zerbrechen]

I figured I might post this here, though I also submitted to the Beoworld forum (but haven't heard anything yet - cf. http://forum.beoworld.org/forums/t/26308.aspx)

I wanted to pick your brains about a tape deck I have, the Beocord 2400: https://www.beoworld.org/prod_details.asp?pid=945

Firstly, I've been able to fix one thing. The playback/record switch was definitely dirty. I used Deoxit and worked the heck out of it. As a result, the right channel no longer buzzes and sound great. However, the left channel does not output.

This unit has dual VU meters and only the right moves during playback. Sometimes, when I mess with pressing the record function both move, though only a little on the left and it falls back down.

Also, to note, when I turn the unit on, both VU meters go all the way up and back so it definitely works. My guess is it's before the RCA and the meters.

Compare this post from a few years ago which seems a similar issue: http://forum.beoworld.org/forums/p/10772/93595.aspx#93595

Could it be the tapehead? I cleaned it with isopropyl alcohol but no change. Also, I tried recording and only the right channel records. My tinkering has only gotten me so far it seems. I haven't been able to look at the tapehead to see that the wires are on the right are connected yet because I haven't figured out how to remove the front fave plate.

Here's taking apart the 1900 model which looks similar: http://forum.beoworld.org/forums/p/13941/131373.aspx#131373

As a test, I slowly moved a magnetic screwdriver near the head and only the right VU moved. So I guess the path is broken somewhere.

I'm not sure how to proceed. I don't know where to look or what might be causing this issue. Also, never soldered before nor have the tool. Any insights would be greatly appreciated and thanks in advance all!

 

[revox-b77]

Clean the record switch thoroughly.

 

[zerbrechen]

I've sprayed it from every direction I could and worked it back and forth for minutes on end. I just did it a third time (this week). Alas, the left channel neither plays or records. Am I not cleaning it correctly?

 

[dave_n_s]

I've sprayed it from every direction I could and worked it back and forth for minutes on end. I just did it a third time (this week). Alas, the left channel neither plays or records. Am I not cleaning it correctly?

Please see my post in the B&O forum. It's time to get the circuit diagram out and start tracing signals. You could perhaps check continuity through the switch first, to ensure there isn't an open there and the other obvious starting point is to check head DC resistance across the two channels, but health warning I posted over in B&O land remains valid

 

[zerbrechen]

Please see my post in the B&O forum. It's time to get the circuit diagram out and start tracing signals. You could perhaps check continuity through the switch first, to ensure there isn't an open there and the other obvious starting point is to check head DC resistance across the two channels, but health warning I posted over in B&O land remains valid

I really appreciate your I put and recommendations here and over there! I believe it's time to pass it over to my friend who repairs electronics and sets up studios. He has the tools and I will pass your thoughts on to him. Fingers crossed and thank you so much!