Tape Player: Service and Repair

Cassette Tape Head And Capstan Cleaning:

TOOL REQUIRED:
J 39916 Speaker Diagnostic Test Tape Kit

The recommended time for cleaning is every 15 hours for best performance and every 50 hours to prevent damage to the tape head. Two parts should be cleaned on the tape player; the head and the capstan. Since they can be reached through the tape door, leave the tape player in the vehicle. This service should be performed at least every 50 hours of cassette operation. After 50 hours of tape play, "CLN" (Clean) will appear on the display as a reminder. Although the system will still function when this message is displayed, sound quality will be reduced and damage to cassette tapes is possible until the head and capstan are cleaned. After cleaning the cassette tape player, press and hold "EJECT" for five seconds to reset the "CLN" indicator. The radio will display "- - -" to show that the clean feature has been reset.

A tape player that is not cleaned regularly is subject to reduced sound quality, ruining the cassette, or damaging the mechanism. Cassette tapes that are not properly stored in their plastic cases away from contaminants, direct sunlight, and extreme heat, may not operate properly and could cause premature failure of the tape player. Cassettes are subject to wear and the sound quality may degrade over time. Always verify that the cassette tape is in good condition and that the tape player is clean before servicing a tape player. If there is a reduction in sound quality, regardless of when the tape player was last cleaned, try playing a different cassette tape to see if the tape or tape player is at fault. If the second cassette tape results in no improvement in sound quality, try cleaning the tape player.

Proper tape player cleaning should be done with a scrubbing action, non-abrasive cleaning cassette (part of J 39916). This is a wet-type cleaning system that uses a cleaning cassette with pads which scrub the tape head as the hubs of the cleaner cassette turn. If this type of cleaner is used, the radio may display an error and eject the cartridge. This is normal and is the result of an added feature in the tape player that detects broken tapes. If an error occurs, insert the cleaning cassette at least three times to thoroughly clean the tape player. A non-scrubbing action, wet-type cleaner can also be used. This type of cleaner uses a cassette with a fabric belt which cleans the tape head. This type of cleaning cassette will not cause an error, but it may not clean the tape player as thoroughly as the scrubbing type cleaner.