• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Two R2Rs with play in capstan - how to fix?

C

CPQ5360

New Member
Hi all. I recently acquired two reel-to-reel tape recorders - a Craig 2107 and a Voice of Music Tape-O-Matic 760. Both are small, low-end, but capstan-driven units. Both work, but are suffering from the same issue - they have longitudinal play in the capstan.

The Craig's play is massive - on the order of a 1/4 inch. I have to lay the machine on its back to play; otherwise the capstan walks forward, and the flywheel scrapes against the chassis.

The VM's play is about 1/8 inch. It causes the flywheel to sit low, so the FF idler doesn't engage with it properly.

Anyone know what might the issue be on these machines? Is there a felt washer in the capstan that has gone flat? I thought since I have two machines with the same issue that it would be a common issue, but I have found absolutely nothing through Google.

Thanks!
 
Register to hide this ad
You'll probably have to take them apart, and see if there is a way to adjust them mechanically. I doubt you'll find service manuals for free for these.
 
Jonny Ramone said:
You'll probably have to take them apart, and see if there is a way to adjust them mechanically. I doubt you'll find service manuals for free for these.
Click to expand...
Agreed here. I would imagine that a fiber or plastic washer or series of them have worn apart due to age and they'll need to be replaced. A little (1/16") bit of endplay is necessary as you don't want the flywheel to bind and become difficult to rotate.

Steve
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom