Tascam 38 question

[C.M.S.]

I recently acquired another Tascam 38.
There is a problem with the reels themselves not locking tightly enough. Hopefully I'm explaining this properly - when you put the reels on, and tighten the spool, there is still a millimeter or so of play, and spring to the spool, so the tape is not fed through the path consistently.

I'm still waiting on the PDF manual for this unit from a friend.
Just thought I'd ask if this is something that can be corrected simply in the meantime.

 

[Blue Jinn]

The hub tension mechanisms may be worn. I had this problem (if I'm understanding the description right) on one hub even after reel attached and clamped there was still looseness. I just replaced the hub.

 

[sweetbeats]

They crack. Pretty common.

 

[evm1024]

It does sound like the NAB Hub adaptors are shot. I've had the same problem with mine and took them apart to see just what the problem is. No fix possible. You will need to buy new. Here is somewhere to get them and be sure that it is good. Don't let the address bother you. this is a good place as other can atest.

http://www.openreel.net/shop_e.html

You might find NOS on eBay (I did) but there is a risk. I'll be offering my old ones there but I will properly describe them. Not all will be so truthful.

In the mean time you can run you 38 on it's back and center the reel which takes care of the shifting of the reels (at least it did for me). Even leaning back at 45 degrees helps.

Also some blue masking tape under the tabs may help depending on how badly broken they are.

The longterm solution is to only tighten them enough to hold the reel firmly and not till they come to the stop. This is what leads to premature failure.

Regards, Ethan

PS I bought mine from this guy on ebay. I recommend him, I've bought things from him 3 or 4 times and all were great with no problems.


http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-TASCAM-38-4...s_R2?hash=item3ca57c81e7&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14

 

[sweetbeats]

Hey, Ethan...are they no longer available from Teac? That's where I got a set for my 58 though it was a couple years ago...cheaper and direct from the manufacturer...

 

[dodgeaspen]

I had the same problem with my 38 so I replaced the hub adapters and problem solved. You can still buy them from Teac. They are 15.00 plus tax each. Do not buy the used or generic off junkbay because most times they will cost you more money.

Parts Department
TEAC America
7733 Telegraph Road
Montebello, CA 90640
Phone: 323-727-4840
Fax: 323-727-7632
E-Mail: parts@teac.com
http://www.teac.com
http://www.tascam.com

 

[C.M.S.]

In the mean time you can run you 38 on it's back and center the reel which takes care of the shifting of the reels (at least it did for me). Even leaning back at 45 degrees helps.

Yeah, this is what the guy who sold it to me had been doing.
I have another deck so I'll try and swap the hubs from the other one, since its heads aren't in great shape. Sound like ordering new ones is a good idea as well.

Thanks everyone.

Any recommendations on what not/to do when taking the hub apart?

 

[sweetbeats]

When taking the hub apart...you mean removing the reel clamper/hub adapter? If that's what you mean it is really simple. Just remove the screw that is in the center of the adapter. If it has been on there for a long time, like if it is an original part it might be stuck a little to the reel table but giving it a tap with the handle of a screwdriver or something should pop it free if it doesn't come right off.

 

[dodgeaspen]

Yeah, this is what the guy who sold it to me had been doing.
I have another deck so I'll try and swap the hubs from the other one, since its heads aren't in great shape. Sound like ordering new ones is a good idea as well.

Thanks everyone.

Any recommendations on what not/to do when taking the hub apart?

Your talking about a significant amount of money. You might be able to have them reconditioned. http://www.jrfmagnetics.com/

 

[C.M.S.]

Sorry if that was confusing, I was referring to new hub adapters, as per your previous post.