Tascam 34b tape speed help needed...

[grimtale]

Just finished servicing my Tascam 34B. Put new pinch roller & belt on it and cleaned it up good. This unit was from an estate sale.

The issue I'm having is that it plays too fast. The pitch knob (+/- 12) doesn't adjust it all the way out. On the left hand side inside there are two speed control pots but even with the pot adjusted as slow as it will go, the unit still plays too fast. It's not off by far but just a little to fast.

Anyone ran into this before or have any ideas?

Thanks
Mark

 

[A Reel Person]

...

Make sure the pinch roller is moving up all the way and positively contacting the capstan. If the pinch roller doesn't quite contact the pinch roller, the reel motor drive will pull the tape at an unregulated speed.

 

[grimtale]

Pinch roller is making solid contact. Speed doesn't vary at all, just too fast by a little.
Any other ideas?
Thanks
Mark

 

[A Reel Person]

I know you said you replaced the belt, but...

if the belt is riding up on the flange of the drive pulley, instead of seated properly between the flanges, it will give you a noticeable speed boost. It may be a hassle, but maybe get under the covers and take another look at the belt.