Nak Dragon: Weakening Capstan motor

[hatemf]

I recently acquired a Nak Dragon, and I noticed that the tape runs fine after turning the deck on and stays that way for about 10 mins or so (or roughly until it warms up) then the capstan motors start slowing down over 2-3 seconds and the tape comes to a stop. I can see that the motor (i.e. flywheels) are not running anymore, but if pushed with my fingers they start running again but at a weak torque (not enough to start the tape again if play button is pushed).

Anyone have seen this before, or have an idea of where to start troubleshooting this issue?

 

[jdurbin1]

Common issue is the soldering for the drive transistors that power the capstan motor... heat-cycling at those locations tends to cause cracked solder joints over time.

John

 

[Hajidub]

Checkout tapeheads.net, there's a couple NAK professionals that are really helpful!

 

[zedex]

Capstan shafts in need of lubrication. The dragon itself is in need of a service.