jeffczar
03-03-2008, 06:49 PM
It seems I have a problem with my Akai X1800SD reel to reel. I noticed that there seems to be a low pitched squealing type noise coming from the capstan while the tape passes through. It seems to affect back coated tapes most but is there on all types. At first I thought the capstan pinch roller tension was too tight but I am starting to think that the actual takeup tension is pulling too hard and pulling the tape through the capstan and causing the noise. When a bit of slack is applied on the takeup side the noise goes away. It also feels quite tight past the capstan as its running. Is it possible the takeup is pulling too hard? Is this even adjustable. The arm is all the way up to the top of the travel as well. Any ideas on this? If I move the play lever just slightly to lessen the pinch roller pressure on the tape, the noise also disappears but I don't believe that too MUCH pinch roller tension is the normal condition of wear, I would guess that would drift toward loose over the years so I am led to believe that the actual takeup itself is actually pulling too hard. Is there a clutch on the reel table that adjusts this on that side? Any suggestions are welcome as the deck is really nice otherwise. I also think this may be contributing to the very slight fast speed problem I posted earlier on the deck, could it be pulling the tape through the pinch roller, it would seem to make sense. Thanks in advance. Jeff