Oiling The Capstan

[SteveM]

I got a few seconds of squeaky action going on in the capstan the other day. I'm just wondering the best way to oil it before it gets any worse. Unfortunately I have to take it back apart again, but I want to make sure I use the right stuff in the right spot and not too much. Is the radio shack electronics lubricant ok to use?

 

[Beck]

What model is it again?

Usually it's a matter of laying the machine on its back or angled back and putting a few drops of 3-in-one oil around the edge of the capstan. You may have to lift a washer made of felt and possibly a metal cap holding that in place. Be careful not to get any on the part of the capstan that makes contact with the tape. A syringe (illegal in some states like Massachusetts, but what’s not prohibited in Massachusetts ) is handy to get the oil in the right place.

A capstan can lose lubrication if you clean it on its back and cleaning fluid runs down the shaft.

 

[SteveM]

What model is it again?

Usually it's a matter of laying the machine on its back or angled back and putting a few drops of 3-in-one oil around the edge of the capstan. You may have to lift a washer made of felt and possibly a metal cap holding that in place. Be careful not to get any on the part of the capstan that makes contact with the tape. A syringe (illegal in some states like Massachusetts, but what’s not prohibited in Massachusetts ) is handy to get the oil in the right place.

A capstan can lose lubrication if you clean it on its back and cleaning fluid runs down the shaft.

Hey Tim, thanks for the info. It's a 38. Yup, that's were I am. Massachusetts. No syringes.

 

[Beck]

Yup, that's were I am. Massachusetts. No syringes.

Ok then… definitely just use the tip from the 3-in-one can. I believe those are still legal.

 

[FALKEN]

"oiling the capstan"

heh heh heh......