Troubleshooting Tascam 22-4, have questions..

[krkanos]

So,

This machine, although in excellent quality when stored in New England barn several years ago, is now not feeling so well. When the right hand tension arm is engaged and play button depressed both hubs spin at FF speeds in opposite directions. My initial feeling before I removed the front cover was that I had a broken belt or some such. And although all of the belts could stand to be replaced (being a bit loose due to drastic up-down temp changes) I feel that they are not the real issue. The hazzarding of any guesses would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Herm]

There is nothing wrong with that. If you put tape on the machine it will turn the correct way. It needs tape on it
Also I would be more worried about the capstan belt being any good.
Make sure when you lift the right arm that it turns before you use any tape.

When you lift the arm and it doesnt spin stop and drop the arm quickly.
Some times these belts on the capstan over time can turn to glue and stick to the wheel inside. As a result you can burn a capstan motor up.
Or they can just go limp and fall off and the capstan wont turn in that case.

If the unit has sat a long time it will probablly need a new belt no matter what and the pinch roller may need to be replaced,
Its my favorite machine out of all the 4 tracks and it worth fixing up as long as the heads are in descent shape.
Also there is only 2 belts on the 22-4, The capstan belt and a small belt for the time indicator.
Good luck with your machine Keep us informed and send in some pictures if possible of the heads we love getting old tascams going around here,