There are many CT-F threads here, so I hope this one is unique enough to add value.

I got mine as part of a $30.00 package deal along with a main fuse blowing SX-950 (original owner for both). The receiver is OK now.

On power up, this deck played for about 3 seconds, then stopped. Searched the great threads on this subject. This one also had a squeal in the main drive motor (FF/RW motor ok) that would only go away if you held the unit vertically, knobs straight down.

After about 30 minutes of noise free operation of the main motor (have to insert tape to engage the main motor circuit), set it down on its feet, and still quiet.

Noted that when the play buttom worked (listening to Frank Sinatra now), the pulleys were turning for tape counter and rotation sense switch. When the belt slipped, deck stopped automatically as it should. So this unit has a good sensor switch.

Then ran tapes in FF and FR to excercise the counter and rotation sense mechanism, and cleaned that belt with alcohol with a swab by gently pushing the swab against the moving belt, drrenched in alcohol.

Worked better, about a minute before kickoff now.

Then tried bicycle teflon chain lube (very light weight stuff) and touched each side of the motion sensor housing where the shaft enters (jewler screw driver blade has a dab of oil on the end).

That cured the hang up problem for now, unit plays clean, steady, and clear.

I have one burned out VU meter illumination bulb, and a Dolby On status bulb.

Anyone have a source for the VU meter bulb ?

1. The tape well lamp is running at 7.5 vRMS, 90mA (0.185" dia x 0.825"
long, clear axial)

http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&Partnumber=070-275
is clear, 8V 100mA Axial Lamp 0.16" x 0.8"


BUT:

2. The meter lamps are running at 7.5 vRMS, 50mA. (0.135" dia x 0.650" long, frosted axial)

you will have to see if the non-frosted bulb is acceptable in appearance and whether or not it is too big.

You could try dgwojo...

Thanks Mark.

Finally pulled the CT-F9191 front panel away from the deck, then gently pulled VU meter away from the front chassis, you don't need to clip any wires off. Then the clear lense pops easily away from VU meter body with a jewlers screw driver. Verified 6.3 volts to the bulb, bulb is open, and an easy change. I decided to order from Parts Express 2 each of the 8 and 12 volt versions of the axial 100 ma bulb from parts express. If the 8 V is too bright, the 12 volt one should be dimmer and not use the rated 100 mA, since these are powered from 6.3 vac.

PM member Dgwojo, he can hook you up with the proper lamps.