Pioneer CT-F 950 Idler Wheel Issue

I posted this in the Tape section, but I had no responses.

I recently replaced the belts and idler wheel on a CT-F 950. The take up and supply reels took a bit to start spinning but were fine for about an hour.

After an hour the deck wouldn't play any more. Also, FF/RW do not work.

After investigating, I found that the idler wheel isn't fully engaging with the take up and supply reels. If I use a q-tip to engage the idler wheel FF/RW work fine.

Any ideas about what the cause/solution is?

I have a similar problem with a CT-F900. There seems to be friction between the idler and the metal frame on top. If I push down a bit on the axle with a pin, it engages and runs fine. I am trying to figure out if I left out a key washer that may go on top before the clip. Be interested to know how you fix yours if you do.

Figured it out. The take up and supply reels needed lubing. Works fine now.

What kind of lubricant did you use?

I used sewing machine oil.